Bonita Ellen Brown

She is preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Starliper; father, Howard Starliper; brother, Stephen Starliper; sister-in-law, Judi Starliper; and nephew, Chad Starliper.

Bonita is survived by her daughter, Beth Dowd, and her beloved grandchildren, Maggie and Abby; her son, Christopher Brown; daughter-in-law, Randi (Tyler and Justin); and her niece, Wendy Starliper (Mason, Carter, and Presley).

Bonita was a devoted Mother and fully engaged Grandmother. Her family was her greatest joy. She poured into them through her presence and encouragement, leaving a legacy of love. She cherished the time spent traveling with her daughter and granddaughters, together tracing the family lineage and uncovering the stories that shaped their roots. These journeys remained among her most treasured memories. Bonita found her greatest peace near the water, often recalling beach trips and golden evenings spent on her son’s boat, watching the sunset surrounded by the family she adored.

Born in Kernstown, Virginia, during World War II, Bonita was named after her paternal grandmother, Mary Ellen and actress Bonita Granville. She grew up on the family farm, riding her horse Ginger, forming Valley Riders Horse Club, attending sock hops at the War Memorial Building, competing in beauty pageants, playing piano and singing in the choir. She graduated from James Wood High School in Winchester, Virginia, excelling academically and being inducted into the National Honor Society.

Bonita devoted much of her life to caring for others. She served as a registered nurse for 14 years after graduating from Winchester Memorial Hospital’s School of Nursing, later earning her Bachelor of Science degree from Mary Baldwin University. Her career turned into leadership roles where she made a lasting impact serving as Administrator for Shawnee Springs Nursing Home, creating a merit-based scholarship program to benefit outstanding student nurses, and establishing a private wing dedicated to veterans. Her compassion for seniors and respect for those who served were evident in every program she built.

Her commitment to geriatric care resulted in her being appointed to become the Director of Training for Beverly Enterprises Eastern Division, where she led training and management seminars. Her passion continued through her own consulting business, traveling across the country to revitalize senior living communities. One of her memorable assignments was serving as President of Hubbard Healthcare, during which time she lived in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, where she found daily inspiration looking out upon Grandfather Mountain.

Bonita was not only dedicated to her career but also had a deep love for reading and experiencing other cultures. She traveled to 17 countries, each journey adding depth to her life experiences. Italy, France, Scotland and Israel held special places in her heart. She had an incredible ability to share her adventures in a way that made those moments come alive.

She was active in her community and volunteered at the Drake House assisting customers with designing the perfect ensemble. She loved fashion and modeled for various local charity events. She also served as First Vice President of the Carlisle Junior Civic Club in Pennsylvania where the family lived for 5 years.

Bonita’s legacy transcends her professional achievements; it lies in her passion for life, her friendships, and the stories she shared. Most importantly, Bonita was a woman of unwavering faith and a follower of Jesus. Her faith was tested over the past two years following a stroke, but she remained steadfast, sharing her testimony and leading others to a relationship with Christ.

The family invites you to join them for a celebration of life at First Baptist Church of Atlanta, located at 4400 North Peachtree Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30338, Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with a reception to follow. Dr. Anthony George will preside over the service. Bonita’s ashes will be scattered off the coast of South Carolina in a private ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations, in memory of Bonita Brown, to First Baptist Church of Atlanta https://www.fba.org/give/