Bonnie E. Cary

Bonnie E. Cary, 84, of New Castle, passed away peacefully on Monday evening, February 2, 2026, surrounded by the love and devoted care of her family, following a brief battle with cancer. She was born on June 12, 1941, in Albany, Kentucky, a daughter of the late Leo and Alta (Murray) Cook. One of eight children, Bonnie was raised by a single mother—an upbringing that shaped her lifelong independence, resilience, and quiet self-confidence. Bonnie was a 1959 graduate of Clinton County High School in Albany, Kentucky. She went on to graduate from Anderson University in 1975 as a Registered Nurse, answering a lifelong calling to care for others. For most of her career, she served as a psychiatric nurse, bringing wisdom, patience, and compassion to some of the most vulnerable individuals she encountered. She worked many years at the New Castle State Developmental Center and later continued her service in area nursing homes, migrant camps, and private homes, always meeting people where they were with dignity and respect. A proud and deeply patriotic American, Bonnie chose to serve her country later in life, enlisting in the United States Air Force at the age of 48. She served for 13 years in the Air Force Reserves. Rising to the rank of Major, she was at one time the ranking officer of the 35th unit at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. During her military service, Bonnie cared for those injured in the Bosnian War—combining her nursing skills with her unwavering sense of duty. Bonnie’s commitment to service extended well beyond her profession. She was a member and the first female commander of American Legion Post #137, where she served on the board of directors and faithfully participated on the burial honors team for many years. Every Tuesday, she volunteered at the Christian Love Help Center, where she also served on the board, along with the Guest House Board and the Veterans Museum. She was a devoted member of First Baptist Church. Bonnie was social, engaging, and genuinely interested in people. She had a giving heart and would gladly help anyone in need. Strong, wise, and self-assured, she also had an ornery streak and was known for her calm but honest way of telling people what they needed to hear. Those who knew her trusted her voice and respected her strength. She enjoyed playing bingo, taking bus trips, shopping, and had a fondness for diamonds, high heels, and her beloved Corvette and Jeep. Above all else, Bonnie took immense pride in her grandchildren and loved hearing about their accomplishments and successes. Those left to cherish Bonnie’s memory include her two children, Mikki (Aaron) Smith and Michael (Allison) Cary, both of New Castle; four grandchildren, Skyler Ford, Kaitlynn Cary, Rheanne Cary, and Isaac Smith; her longtime companion, Bennie Rains of New Castle; her sister, Mary Lonell Cook of Louisville, Kentucky; a special nephew, Jamie Cross; and many other nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her first love and the father of her children, Freddie Cary; her son, Mitchell “Mitch” Cary, in 2023; and six brothers and sisters. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026, at Sproles Family Funeral Home, with Dr. Jerry Ingalls officiating. Burial will follow at South Mound Cemetery – Legion Square, with military honors conducted by Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Friends may call at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service on Friday. You may send the family a personal condolence at www.sprolesfamilycares.com. The Sproles family and staff are deeply honored to serve the family of Bonnie E. Cary.

Tributes

Bonnie E. Cary

June 12, 1941 - February 2, 2026