Bonnie Jean Shipley, 80, of New Castle, went home to be with the Lord on the evening of Thursday, November 10, 2022 at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie.
She was born on January 1, 1942, in New Castle, Indiana, a daughter of the late Norris and Jean (Sharp) Jones.
Bonnie was a long-time member of First Baptist Church. Her faith in Christ drove her passion for service and helping people. She was an Avon Representative for over 60 years and brought lots of beauty and smiles to many people over the years. The greatest joy of Bonnie’s heart was her family, she loved being a grandmother and a great-grandmother. She was always ready with bowls of Neapolitan Ice Cream whenever the children would visit. Bonnie especially enjoyed celebrating holidays and birthdays with her family. She loved cooking and was known for making the best deviled eggs and banana bread. Bonnie enjoyed traveling, especially on cruises, visiting the casino, and playing bingo at The Elks in New Castle. She was always eager to attend church and school programs and athletic events to cheer on her children and grandchildren. Bonnie left her imprint on others through volunteering in the church when she was able.
Those left to cherish Bonnie’s memory include five children, Gareld Shipley Jr., of New Castle, Sandra (David) Buchanon of Carmel, Randall (Michelle) Shipley of New Castle, William Shipley of Indianapolis, and Christina (Chad) Lenz of New Castle; eight grandchildren, Skyler Shipley, Nicholas (Hannah) Sweet, Kailee (Rick) Gross, Justin Shipley, and Dillon, Wyatt, Garrett, and Alevya Lenz; three great-grandchildren, Vera, Benjamin, and Evelyn; a sister-in-law, Carole Jones; a brother-in-law, Robert Graham, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband, Gareld A. Shipley Sr., in 2017, an infant son, Brett Shipley; a granddaughter, Ashley Shipley; a brother, Richard Jones, and a sister, Diana Graham.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, November 19, 2022 at Sproles Family Funeral Home with Pastor Jerry Ingalls officiating. Burial will follow in Green Hills Memory Gardens.
Friends may call from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm Saturday at the funeral home.
You may offer the family a personal condolence at www.sprolesfamilycares.com.
The Sproles family and staff are honored to serve the family of Bonnie Shipley.