Bonnie Brooks Swilley

HENDERSON- Bonnie Brooks Swilley, 85, of Henderson, passed away peacefully and went to be with her Lord and Savior on February 17, 2025. Born October 7, 1939, in Asheboro, Bonnie was the daughter of Rev. Acie Winship Brooks and Essie “Elizabeth” Martin Brooks. She was the widow of her “one and only love,” John Thomas Swilley. Bonnie was one of a kind. She lit up every room she entered and had the ability to make everyone feel loved and appreciated. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. Bonnie was known for her kind and gentle spirit, tenacity and quick wit, unwavering love for her family, and, above all else, her commitment to her faith—sharing the love and kindness of Jesus with all she encountered. Bonnie found joy in life’s simple pleasures—cherishing time with her family, cooking delicious meals, enjoying the beauty of nature through birds and flowers, and offering a listening ear to those in need through her phone calls. She was a faithful and longtime member of Central Baptist Church, serving in various ways until she could no longer attend due to health reasons. She is survived by her two sons, Daniel Emmett Swilley (Teresa) of Henderson and Jay Patrick Swilley (Marie) of Wake Forest; three granddaughters, Lauren Elizabeth Swilley, Lindsey Danielle Swilley, and Evin Swilley Peoples (James); one brother, John Brooks (Rhonda); two sisters, Janice Heffner and Nancy Byrd (Ron); as well as her two nieces, one nephew, and extended family. Bonnie is reunited in Heaven and preceded in death with her parents Acie and Elizabeth; and her beloved husband, John. A service to honor and celebrate Bonnie’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 2:00pm at J.M White Funeral Home officiated by Rev. Bruce Beck. Visitation will be held at 1:00pm prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Central Baptist Church, 2574 Ruin Creek Rd, Henderson, NC 27537. A beautiful, loving, and comforting woman until the very end, Bonnie is now at peace in the arms of Jesus, rejoicing in Heaven. She will be greatly missed but forever cherished in our hearts.