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Celebrating the Life of Bonnie Moody

Karin Hall-Willis | Published on 6/23/2025

Bonnie Gail Moody, 77, of Lonoke, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025. Born in Arkansas to the late Martin "E. M." and Dorothy Stocks, Bonnie lived a life guided by her Christian faith—marked by kindness, generosity, and a deep commitment to education.

A beloved member of the local art community, Bonnie held a special place in the Mid-Southern Watercolorists heart, where her humor, bright personality, and creative spirit endeared her to many dear friends who will deeply miss her presence.

Those who knew Bonnie shared fond memories of her spirited nature and dedication.

Suzette Patterson recalled teaching alongside Bonnie at Ridge Road Primary School in the 1970s, where Bonnie’s students adored her, and she them. Suzette fondly remembered a school trip to the Buffalo River where the water was higher than anticipated. Bonnie kept all the children safe and in good spirits and in turn an unforgettable adventure for the adults involved. Later, while Suzette was teaching at The Arkansas Arts Center (now AMFA), Bonnie showed up as a student. Suzette recalls that no matter what the subject of the class, Bonnie always marched to the beat of her own drum and painted whatever she wanted.



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Bonnie Moody

Mayo Smith and Bonnie worked at Hendrix College together in theatre and he recalls the beautiful costumes that Bonnie Created. She taught science at Hendrix at the same time and like to shock and amaze her students. Her sense of drama and theatre was apparent as in one class where she produced a rose that she had frozen in liquid nitrogen and shattered it like glass in front of the class.

Bonnie dedicated much of her life to teaching, inspiring generations of students with her passion for learning and her unwavering support. Known for her ability to uplift those who felt overlooked, she was a mentor who offered both guidance and heartfelt encouragement. Her generosity extended far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.

Those who knew Bonnie will remember her kind heart, outspoken nature, and the way she made everyone feel valued. Her candid honesty was balanced by an infectious smile, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Michael "Mike" and Joe Stocks; and her niece, Heather. Bonnie is survived by her nephew, Heath Stocks; and her special cousins, Dr. John Scheel (Vickie), VaLynn (Dustin) Mills, Jason (Violet) Scheel, and Vonda (George) Bradley.

A graveside service was held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 23, at Concord United Methodist Cemetery in Furlow, Arkansas.