Elgin Baylor Bonner

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Elgin Bonner, the son of Jerlene and Harry Bonner, Sr., was a loving father, grandfather, fiancé, friend, and a beacon of light to others. Born on February 4, 1967, Elgin's life was a testament to giving again and again. He always was the first to look out for others and anyone in his presence had a better day as a result of interacting with him.

Elgin is a proud Albion High School alumnus, graduating in the class of 1985. He is remembered as a studious, athletic, and kind student who collected and enjoyed music, produced mixtapes, and earned the nickname DJ EL Boogie because of his creativity and proficiency. He continued his educational endeavors at Eastern Michigan University and pursued a BS degree in Consumer Affairs and Marketing, in 1990. Following college, he began employment as a Technology Analyst where he utilized methodology and product management techniques at State Farm Insurance. Elgin was recently honored for his 30 years of service and expertise with State Farm Insurance, Bloomington, IL.

In addition to his family and friends, Elgin loved sports, especially the University of Michigan competitions, dining out at new restaurants, and attending his grandson’s elementary basketball league games. He is described as a pillar of strength and kindness in his family as he provided unwavering support, encouragement, and wise guidance that enriched the lives of many family members and loved ones. As a grandfather, he took every opportunity he had to share his love with his grandchildren. They were the apples of his eye and brought smiles to his face when they shared special moments. Spending time cooking on the grill, listening to his favorite music, providing inspiration and wisdom, coaching his son Dhalvin’s basketball team, when he was young, grandson Kaiden’s elementary league, and maintaining his passion as an avid reader was how he spent non work hours.

Elgin leaves to cherish his memory his mother and father, Jerlene and Harry Bonner, Sr., brother, Harry Bonner, Jr. Albion, Michigan; son and daughter, Dhalvin (Brianna) Gomez-Bonner and Jordyn Gomez-Bonner; grandchildren, Kaiden, Kaliyah, Kamille, and Kora Gomez-Bonner, Lansing, IL; fiancé Kira Gibbs; family members, classmates, and friends.

Elgin leaves a profound impact on his loving family, friends, and the countless lives of children he embraced. May he rest in peace and may his soul find eternal serenity. In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Western Avenue Community Center, 600 North Western Avenue, Bloomington, IL 61701, or Kids at Hope Youth Development Program, 600 E. Michigan Avenue, Albion, MI 49224.

A memorial service to celebrate Elgin's life will be held on Friday, July 28, 2023 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 100 Luther Blvd, Albion, MI beginning with family hour from 10-11AM, visitation from 11AM-12Pm and services starting at 12 NOON. He will be laid to rest in Albion Memory Gardens.

The family is being served by J. Kevin Tidd funeral Home, 811 Finley Dr., Albion, MI.

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