Lex Bonner Jr.

Odie Alex Bonner, Jr., “Lex,” died Sunday, October 31, 2021 after a valiant battle against a long illness. He was 68 years old. A native Memphian, who loved his city and his many friends. Mr. Bonner graduated from Germantown High School. He earned a bachelor’s and several master’s degrees from the University of Memphis.

At the University of Memphis, he was a brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon. Mr. Bonner was a classical pianist with perfect pitch, who could hear a tune once and play it. He was well-known about town for his musical talent, played in several bands, in many of the city’s gathering places and restaurants, at the Orpheum, and at area churches. He also played the piano for many of his friends’ special events. He had a long and varied career as a salesman for Caruthers Concrete and other companies, but he ultimately found his calling in teaching. As a substitute school teacher within the Memphis school system, Mr. Bonner used his wit to disarm tense situations between students, was known for the raps he created to help his students learn their history and was awarded multiple teaching awards.

His last few years were greatly limited by his illness, but there were many friends who kept wheelchairs in their cars, just to come by and take him out of the house for a few hours, or who brought meals to his family. His neighbors in Bryton Towers were particularly faithful and generous in caring for him. Everyone who loved him is grateful for the love and attention shown to him and the family.

A faithful servant of Jesus Christ, Mr. Bonner was a member of First Presbyterian Church, 166 Poplar Avenue in Memphis, TN where he played for services as long as he was able. A celebration of life service will be held for him there on what would have been his birthday, Tuesday, November 9th at 6:00 PM. An informal gathering of family and friends will follow. The service will be livestreamed on Facebook live: facebook.com/firstpresmemphis

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.FamilyFuneralMemphis.com for the Bonner family.