Bonnie Lee Hankins

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Bonnie Lee Hankins, 82, of Palm Bay, Florida. A beloved wife, mother, aunt and friend. She went to be with our Lord on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. Born April 1,1944 in Oneonta, New York to Myron (Mike) and Laura Parsons.

How did Bonnie and Daryl mee and what was her life like?

A Navy buddy of Daryl's asked him if he would like to date a red head. He said, "yes, I've never dated one before." He asked Bonnie if she would like to date a sailor, she said, "yes." They met on her birthday April 1st, 1962, as blind dates. You have heard of love at first sight, well there is the proof.

They got engage June 2nd and married December 8th, 1962, wasting no time, but it was supposed to be an earlier wedding, but the date they picked was during deer hunting season, and the future father-in-law just couldn't make it.

Their 63 years together began in Bainbridge, Maryland where Daryl was going through radiomen school. Through the next 20 years, they lived in Spain, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, and many of the United States. They finally settled in Palm Bay in 1981.

Bonnie first job was being a maid on an estate near her hometown, so she could earn enough money to join Daryl who was stationed in Spain. Through the years, she worked at a day care nursery, as bag lady at on-base grocery store. That experience came in handy when her last employment was a cashier for Publix.

Bonnie had no other paying jobs. She was a Red Cross Volunteer, an Ombudsman whose job was to be a go between Navy wives and ship's captain. She was the first president of the enlisted men's wives club when the Navy took over the base in Bermuda.

She dedicated her life to being a Sailor's wife for 63 years, a loving mother to their three sons Todd (1964-1965), Joe and Eric. She had a deep love for family and friends.

Bonnie had a passion for her plants and loved convertibles. She lived life to the fullest, to the beat of her own drum and often on her own terms. You never knew what she would do or say - that was just a small part of her magic. She never met a stranger. She will always be remembered for her crazy ways, her sense of humor, generosity, and vibrant light.

She is survived by her devoted husband, L. Daryl Hankins; her two sons Joseph (Mandy) and Eric (Nancy); loving nieces

and nephews, four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and many dear friends.

All those that she loved and touched deeply, please join us in celebrating her life.