Jane Johnson Bonham, 78, of Rock Hill, SC, passed away at her home on September 21, 2023, surrounded by her husband and children. Born on October 5, 1944, in Alton, Illinois, Jane was the beloved wife of Ben Berry Bonham and the loving mother of Jennifer Bonham Hyslop (Sean), Leslie Bonham Atkins (Matthew), and Matthew Preston Bonham (Sarah Morgan).
Jane attended Alton High School and furthered her education at Southern Illinois University. After starting a family, Jane and Ben relocated to several cities where Jane quickly plugged into her community in various ways, from working as a dental assistant and bank manager to playing in tennis leagues and volunteering for various organizations. As a couple, Ben and Jane enjoyed traveling to new places and meeting people from all over the world. Jane delighted in her hobbies such as sewing, crafting, and cooking, especially when the product was something she could share with others. Above all things, she was a devoted mother who never missed an opportunity to sew a costume or cheer for her children’s sports teams. Her warmth, compassion, and generosity were gifts to all who had the joy of knowing her.
In February of 2009, Jane experienced a life-altering accident that left her paralyzed below the neck. She was fortunate to be able to spend several months at Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia, where she received exceptional rehabilitative care for which she and her family were extremely grateful. Upon her return home to Rock Hill, Jane found great solace in the presence of her friends and loved ones who stood by her. While she was unable to engage in the passions of her previously active lifestyle, her dynamic yet gentle spirit remained; her optimism, courage, and strength were an inspiration to all.
Jane is survived by her devoted husband, Ben Berry Bonham, and her children Jennifer Bonham Hyslop, Leslie Bonham Atkins, and Matthew Preston Bonham. She is also survived by her brother, Steven E. Johnson (Sharon), of Peoria, IL. Jane leaves behind eight cherished grandchildren: William Branch Atkins, Madelyn Joy Atkins, Brooks Thomas Atkins, Cameron Bonham Hyslop, Ethan Thomas Hyslop, Matthew Preston Bonham Jr., George Edwin Bonham, and Camille Jane Bonham. She was preceded in death by her father, Marion Edwin Johnson, and her mother, Dorothy Jeanne Johnson (Strickland).
A memorial service to honor Jane’s life will be held on October 28, 2023, at Greene Funeral Home, located at 2133 Ebenezer Rd., Rock Hill, SC 29732 at 4PM. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Shepherd Center, Attn: Foundation, 2020 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309, “In Memory of Jane Bonham,” or online at https://foundation.shepherd.org/how-to-give/donate.
Jane Johnson Bonham will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, strength, and resilience will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.
Condolences may be made at www.greenefuneralhome.net