Bonnie Branyon

Bonnie was born on April 30, 1939 in the Bethany community and attended public school in Tuscaloosa county. After marrying Eugene Branyon of Echola, she graduated from the University of Alabama, having obtained both a bachelor and master degree in education. Bonnie was an esteemed teacher with the Tuscaloosa City school system, and she served as a mentor to many student teachers. Bonnie was an active member of the Gideon's Auxillary and enjoyed traveling with her husband, who she was married to for many years. After the birth of her first grandchild, Bonnie retired and loved being a grandmother. She was a life-long, dedicated attender of Northport Baptist Church, serving in many capacities such as VBS director and bible study leader. Bonnie also enjoyed working outside in her garden. She leaves behind a legacy of a love for God, love for family and friends, and a commitment to service to others.

Bonnie is survived by her daughters, Suzanne Nester (Christopher) and Amy Bigham; sisters Eddie Lou Tilley and Jo Ann Ray, grandchildren Sydney Moran Nester, Emma Baylis Nester, Olivia Branyon Nester, Nathan Stanley Nester, Luke West Bigham (Brittnay), Anna Hope Bigham, Lily Caroline Bigham and great grandchild Hosanna West Bigham. She is also survived by her sisters in law, many nieces and nephews, and dear friends. Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene D Branyon; her father, Fred Gilliland; her mother, Irene Wheat Gilliland; her son in law, Rod Bigham; and four brothers. A graveside service for Bonnie will be held on Friday, April 14 at 11AM at Memory Chapel in Tuscaloosa, AL. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service in the chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Gideon's International bible ministry.