Bonna Jean Stevens

Bonna Jean Johnson Stevens, age 89, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2024, in Carlsbad, California. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose warmth, kindness, and love touched the lives of all who knew her.

Born in Snowflake, Arizona, Bonna was the cherished daughter of Benjamin Lee Johnson and Lavon Hoyt Johnson. She spent her formative years in Phoenix, Arizona, where she grew up with a strong sense of family and community. She later attended Brigham Young University, where she pursued her passion for education and went on to become a dedicated teacher. Bonna taught French and English at Pasadena High School and Pasadena College in California, inspiring generations of students with her love of language and learning.

Beyond her professional life, Bonna’s heart was devoted to her family and to serving others. She was actively involved in the North County Parkinson’s Group, providing unwavering support to her husband, Lewis F. Stevens, throughout his battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Her commitment extended beyond her own family, as she volunteered her time and formed close friendships with those facing similar challenges.

Bonna had a rare gift for making people feel truly seen, special, and valued. Whether it was through a heartfelt conversation, an encouraging word, or a warm embrace, she had an innate ability to lift spirits and brighten lives. Her sense of humor and playful wit brought laughter to those around her, and she found joy in life’s simple, lighthearted moments. She loved to share stories, often delivering them with a mischievous twinkle in her eye and a perfectly timed joke that left everyone smiling.

As a mother and grandmother, Bonna was endlessly supportive of her children’s and grandchildren’s passions. Whether it was academics, the arts, sports, or personal dreams, she cheered them on with unwavering belief in their abilities. She celebrated their achievements, big and small, and instilled in them the confidence to pursue their aspirations wholeheartedly.

Bonna exuded joy and warmth to everyone she met, always offering an encouraging word and a radiant smile. She had a deep appreciation for life’s special moments, pouring her heart into making every holiday a memorable occasion. With careful attention to food, décor, and music, she ensured that all who entered her home felt welcomed, cherished, and well-fed.

She also had a gift for lifting spirits—often breaking into song to brighten the day of those around her. One of her favorite songs was When There’s Love at Home, a melody that so beautifully reflected the way she lived her life. Now that she is home in heaven, these words have never been more true:

“There is beauty all around,

When there’s love at home;

There is joy in ev’ry sound,

When there’s love at home.

Peace and plenty here abide,

Smiling sweet on ev’ry side;

Time doth softly, sweetly glide,

When there’s love at home.”

Bonna is lovingly remembered by her children, Jennifer LaBar, Tiffany Hutchins, and Brandt Jimerson; her grandchildren, Brynn Hutchins, Kenna Hutchins, and Lorelei Jimerson; and her siblings, Donna Jarman and David Johnson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis F. Stevens, her parents, Benjamin Lee Johnson and Lavon Hoyt Johnson, and her brothers, Dean and Lee Johnson.

A private family memorial will be held to celebrate Bonna’s life and the love she shared so abundantly. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to the North County Parkinson’s Group, an organization that was dear to her heart.

Bonna’s legacy of love, kindness, humor, and joy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished. Her light will continue to shine in the love she gave, the laughter she shared, and the memories that remain.

“Time doth softly, sweetly glide, when there’s love at home.”