Bonnie Jean Woodbury's Obituary
Bonnie Jean Woodbury, age 72, of Muskegon, passed away on August 29, 2025. She was born on September 4, 1952, in Ionia, Michigan, and graduated from Ionia High School in 1970. A woman of deep faith, Bonnie described herself as a “Child of God” and was passionate about sharing her love of God with others. Her faith guided her life, even through challenges. She enjoyed reading the Bible, gardening, crafting, listening to music, attending Worship on the Waterfront, gathering for monthly luncheons with “the girls,” and being an honorary grandma, aunt, and special friend to many. Over the years, Bonnie worked in hospitality, manufacturing, and cared for loved ones through babysitting. She will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and the hugs she freely gave. Bonnie lived courageously with polycystic kidney disease (PKD). On May 5, 2002, she received a life-saving kidney transplant. Bonnie was an example of transplant success—her donor kidney lasted 23 years, far beyond the average—and she never ceased to honor and give thanks for that gift. Despite enduring many health challenges in recent years, she faced each with strength, faith, and resilience. Her daughter Amy lovingly described her as “strong and brave.” She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Cindy Marie Phelps; her parents, Pearlene Woodbury and Keith and Judy Woodbury; and her son-in-law, James E. Phelps. She is survived by her daughter, Amy S. Phelps of Muskegon; her loving sister Sherry (Jess) McKellar of Willow, Alaska; her brother Ron Woodbury of Muir; Stanley (Julie) Nave of Lyons; Candy (Paul) Wilson and Keli Kennedy of Saranac; grandchildren Kylie Cherpes (Chad), Corey Phelps (Brittney), Matthew Phelps (Brandi), Branden Jasso, and James Miles Phelps (Ada); and great-grandchildren Masen, Tate, Owen, Malachi, Tripp, Lainey, and Penelope. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins, her special sister-in-law Mandy Woodbury, cousin Barbara (Buster) Valentine, dear friends Amy Huber, Gilda and Mark, Allyson Clawson and companion Harold D. Smith. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Heather and Joe Pease, Shalyn Ralston, Amy Huber, the staff at Medilodge at the Shore, and the staff of the Leila & Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence for their loving support and care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leila & Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence in Muskegon or Pound Buddies Animal Shelter & Adoption Center in Muskegon. The family also asks that you honor Bonnie’s memory by considering the gift of life through organ donation, a gift that meant so much to her and her family. A celebration of her life will be held in Spring 2026, with details to be announced at a later date.
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