In Loving Memory of
Mary Ruth Bonnell
October 3, 1926 – July 6, 2023
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Ruth Bonnell, who passed at home in Peoria, AZ, on July 6, 2023.
A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend, Mary Ruth spent every day of her 96 years in the pursuit of knowledge, adventure, good food, and great friendship, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished.
Mary Ruth was born on October 3, 1926, in Creal Springs, IL, where she spent her childhood with her brother, Bob, in their parent’s sundry shop. Mary learned the value of hard work, self-sufficiency and love of family, and carried these qualities throughout her life, becoming a source of strength and inspiration to all who knew her.
Mary Ruth’s nurturing spirit blessed her five children, whom she cherished dearly and defended fiercely. Mary truly was the matriarch of her family, taking time to teach not only her children but also her nine grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren about everything from how to write a Pulitzer-worthy book report to the importance of understanding history. She provided them with a loving home and unwavering support.
Mary Ruth’s sense of duty and relentless drive extended beyond her immediate family. She was a pillar of strength and support to her friends and neighbors in Cave Creek, where the family located in 1961. She was very active in the community and served on the school board, the Mother’s Club (which published the first phone book in Cave Creek), and the first community newspaper, The Black Mountain News.
Mary had a deep appreciation for nature and spent many afternoons tending to her beautiful garden and watching the hummingbirds she fed. She also enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, golf, fishing, and spending quality time with her grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy into her life.
Mary was preceded in death by her son Paul, and will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by her remaining daughters, Mary, Tish, Linda, and Jeanie, her adoring grandchildren, as well as her extended family and dear friends. Her spirit and love will live on, carried by those whose lives she touched.
A memorial service for Mary will be held at 2pm on Saturday, August 5, at Desert Hills Presbyterian Church in Carefree, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Dr.
