Bonnie Lou Knowles passed peacefully April 24, 2024, in Purcell, Oklahoma, at the age of 93 years 8 months 8 days. Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the Wadley’s Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.  Online condolences may be made, and service livestreamed at www.wadleysfuneralservice.com.

Bonnie, a woman whose journey was marked by faith, love, and unwavering kindness, was born August 16, 1930, in Harrison, Arkansas, to Joseph and Elza (Walker) Atkinson.

Raised in Arkansas, she embarked on a path that reflected her deep-rooted belief in Jesus, a cornerstone that guided her every step. Upon graduating from the School of the Ozarks in 1948, Bonnie’s life intertwined with that of Millard “Bill” Knowles, whom she married not long after his honorable discharge from the military. Together they ventured to Bethany, Okla., where Bonnie nurtured her children.

After moving to Purcell, she stood by Bill’s side as he built his business, extending compassion to his patients through her dedicated deliveries. The roads they traveled in their RV echoed with laughter and friendship as they crossed paths with new acquaintances, their generosity even reaching the realm of sports through a memorable encounter with Reggie White of the Green Bay Packers.

In simplicity and steadfast devotion, Bonnie found solace, always offering words of encouragement to those she met. A pillar of the First Church of the Nazarene in Mustang, Bonnie’s commitment shone bright as she engaged in teaching Sunday school, guiding youth, and embracing numerous roles within the church community.

Her compassionate spirit extended even to injured birds she tenderly cared for amidst her love for flower gardening, candle making, cake baking and lively games of Skip-bo and Farkle.  In her presence, humor intertwined with faith as Bonnie shared both unreservedly with her family and friends. Her endearing habit of sharing poorly delivered jokes revealed a heart brimming with joy and an infectious zest for life. Above all cherished moments spent with family members – particularly her great-grandchildren – held a special place in Bonnie’s heart.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Elza Atkinson; her husband of 62 years, Bill Knowles; her daughter-in-law, Debbie Knowles; and her brothers, Ivan Atkinson and Gene Atkinson.

Survivors include her son, Ken Knowles; her daughter, Toni “Ethelena” Wiens; her granddaughters, Shea Johnson and husband, Dustin, and Kyndal Creswell and husband, Clay; her grandsons, Justin Knowles and wife, Stephanie, Matt Josef and Kyan Knowles and wife, Kacey; great-grandchildren, Boston, Taryn, Paisley, Kash, Sawyer, Kenley, Knight and River; her siblings, Patsy Daniel, Betty Gember and Bud Atkinson; and numerous other relatives and friends.

As we bid farewell to Bonnie Knowles, we remember a soul who touched countless lives with her warmth and grace. May her legacy endure through the memories she created and the love she shared abundantly.