Harold Elles Bonham

Born in Wichita Falls, Texas, on June 1, 1936, to Ellis M. Bonham and Irene Mowery, he grew up in Wichita Falls. Not only was he an only child, but an only grandchild to his maternal grandparents, John and Alice Mowery.

Harold graduated from Wichita Falls High School in 1954. He attended Abilene Christian College and earned a BS and MS degree from Midwestern State University.

Harold met his wife, Linda, in Henrietta, Texas and they were married in July of 1957. Both Harold and Linda dedicated their lives to education. He taught both Art and Business Math at Rider High School from 1964 to 1987. He was also a counselor at Holland School. He served as both vice president and president of the Texas Classroom Teachers Association and through TCTA was a lobbyist in the Texas Legislature. There he helped pass bills for teacher rights and teacher insurance. He also served in the Naval Reserve.

In 1991, he and Linda retired and moved to Arlington to be close to their daughter, granddaughter, and son-in-law. Harold is survived by his wife, Linda; their daughter, Laura Prestridge and her husband, Phil; granddaughter, Emily Little and her husband, Dax; great-grandson Hank; and their great-granddaughter, Claire. He also leaves behind loving nieces, nephews and their families.

Harold was a member of the New York Avenue Church of Christ, where his memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 13 at 10:30 a.m., 5371 New York Avenue, Arlington, Texas 76018.

Family and friends may share condolences and memories at www.grandprairiefh.com