Bonnie Lee Begley

Bonnie Lee Begley, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother, peacefully left this world November 14, 2024, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Born on December 21, 1939, in Dayton, Ohio, she was a shining light in the lives of so many, renowned for her beautiful smile and her generous spirit.

A student of Julienne Catholic High School, Bonnie nurtured a strong foundation in her faith, which remained an integral part of her life. She was deeply involved in various prayer groups and dedicated her time to charitable acts, including crafting rosaries for those in need. Her unwavering faith was evident to all who knew her, and it brought her immense joy.

Bonnie's passions extended beyond her faith; she had an intrinsic love for cooking and baking. Whether she was canning pickles and jellies or perfecting her famed apple dumplings and pies, she always shared her delicious creations with those she loved. Her love for her cats was immense. Bonnie enjoyed feeding the creatures that populated her home and garden, often stopping to admire their beauty.

She was the proud matriarch of a large family, which includes her children: Greg (Erin) Begley, Cindy Shisler, Patty (Steve) Holley, Tim (Candy) Begley, and Matt (Michelle) Begley. Her legacy continues robustly through her grandchildren, Jake (Amy), Melissa (Tommy), Ryan (Heidi), Brandon, Danny, Holly, Jesse (Angie), Adam (Andrea), Ben (Kate), Rachel (Barry), Cody (Coral), Savannah, Bronson, and Kayla. Bonnie also celebrated her role as a great-grandmother to Jayden, Josiah, Jonathan, Willow, Ollie, Wyatt, Ashlyn, Kylie, Myles, Cora, Jenna, Austin, Scarlett, Dylan, Gavin, Charleston, Alexandra, and Alaina. She was also the great-great grandmother to Luca and was looking forward to welcoming a new great-great-grandchild, Elizabeth.  She is also survived by her siblings: Judy Strong, Gary Strong, Mary Lynn (John) Coatney, and Mick (Connie) Strong, alongside numerous loving nieces and nephews.

Bonnie was predeceased by her beloved husband of 68 years, Thomas E. “Tom” Begley; her parents, LeRoy and Arlene Strong; and her brother, Denny Strong. 

Her life was a tapestry woven with love, faith, and kindness. Bonnie's spirit and joyful essence will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. As they gather to remember her, they will carry forward her legacy of love, shared meals, and cherished moments filled with laughter and joy.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Helen Catholic Church, located at 605 Granville Place, Dayton, OH, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrating her life at 11:00 AM.  Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Dayton. The family invites all who knew and loved Bonnie to join them in remembrance of an extraordinary woman who touched the lives of many.  

Donations may be made in her memory to the Catholic Social Services, 922 W. Riverview Avenue, Dayton, Ohio 45402, or by visiting https://cssmv.org/donate-now. 

To share a memory or special message with her family, please visit the guestbook below.