Bonita “Bonnie” R. Friend

Bonita “Bonnie” Rose Friend 87, of Havana, passed away at her home on Wednesday,

November 19, 2025 at 7:17 a.m. She was born on March 22, 1938 in rural Kilbourne to Howard
and Bessie (Whitley) Barker. She married Ronald L. Friend on March 23, 1957 in Normal,
Illinois, and he preceded her in death on November 21, 2015.
Bonnie is survived by her daughters, Pam Holtmeyer and Lori (Jason) Beck, both of Havana; 9
grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren. Also surviving are her
sisters, Hallie Hornke of Oakford and Kara Barrett of Kilbourne, and several nieces and nephews. She was
preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ronald Friend; son, John Friend; and son-in-law,
Rick Holtmeyer.
Bonnie was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Kilbourne. She attended Illinois State
University in 1956–1957, later continuing her education at Spoon River College before
graduating from Western Illinois University in 1982 with a degree in Home Economics. Bonnie
shared her love of learning as a substitute and teacher from 1986 until 1995. She enjoyed
crocheting, baking, working jigsaw puzzles, gardening, and canning, and was always willing to
lend a hand on the family farm. More than anything, Bonnie treasured time spent with her
family.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Hurley Funeral
Home in Havana, with a visitation one hour prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
Rev. Ed Ingram will officiate. Burial will follow the service at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Havana.
Memorial donations may be made in Bonnie’s name to Mt. Zion Baptist Church or Kilbourne
Fire Department. Online condolences can be left for her family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.