Battleboro -

On a peaceful rainy Sunday morning, the 4th of May 2025, Heaven gained its brightest servant, as our beloved Bonnie Farmer Leonard, "Mrs. Leonard", graduated to her Heavenly home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

With a teaching career in Edgecombe County spanning over 6 decades, the number of lives she impacted through Phillips Middle School, West Edgecombe Middle School, North East Carolina Preparatory School, and beyond, is simply endless. She will forever be remembered by her genuine compassion for children and learning, and for her ability to make all her students feel truly special whether it be a few simple words of encouragement, a warming smile, or an embraceable hug that just made everything better. She was a genuine "old school" educator that "didn't take no mess", but always pushed her students and believed in their success.

Bonnie was born in Edgecombe County on September 22, 1953, to the late Wade and Billie Dove Farmer. She attended North Edgecombe High School (c/o 1971) and North Carolina Wesleyan College where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education. It was also during her early career that she met and in September of 1977, married the love of her life, William "Bill" Leonard, whom she affectionately called "Munchkin". Outside of her very successful career in education, Bonnie loved her family and always wanted to be around them, whether it be at home, a shopping trip, or a family vacation. She also enjoyed the beach, a good book, and a slow steady rainstorm. Bonnie loved life and she would often say, "when I die, tell people I had a good life, and I have enjoyed life!" She was a selfless person and would do anything for anyone, drive anywhere, and wait however long it took. But when it came time for a trip, she was always "ready to go" followed by the question, "where are we going to eat?".

Bonnie leaves to cherish her memory, a loving and devoted sister, Kathy Herring, who was by her side the entire time of her brief illness, as well as a brother-in-law, Larry Herring, and nephew, Jon Michael Herring; Gwen Johnson, who has been so much more than an aunt, but who has truly been more like a second mother, sister, and confidant; a cousin, Ivan Price, who being only 6 months apart in age, was more like a brother and made every experience just a little more fun and lighthearted; cousin, Lance Adcox "Rico", who says "Rest easy, Lola, we will take it from here at the Cabana". And lastly, a shopping buddy, golf cart co-pilot, and overall partner in crime, Savannah Scott, who was the granddaughter she never had.

Bonnie was loved by all and leaves a multitude of cousins and close friends to keep her memory alive in our hearts for all of our days to come. Bonnie also had a soft spot for all animals and loved with her whole heart her child, her canine companion, Kenleigh Leonard.

A special thanks goes to UNC Nash (Nash General) ED, COU, Cardiology and Oncology, UNC Nash Hospice Palliative Care, and UNC Medical Center Basnight Cancer Hospital. An extra special gratitude is extended to Bonnie's "other sister", Robin Marriot Horne and husband Chuck Horne.

To these and so many others, a mere 'thank you' just isn't enough.

Friends, family, and colleagues are welcome to pay their respects at the home of Kathy Herring, 208 E Battleboro Ave, Battleboro NC 27809. While no services are scheduled at this time (Bonnie was very adamant about this), a Celebration of Life will be planned at a future date. At Bonnie's request, memorial contributions can be made to: North East Carolina Prep School Animal Farm, 274 Husky Trail, Tarboro NC 27886.