The Richmond News, Sept. 13, 2024

Bonnie George

Bonnie Louise Gallemore Beissenherz George was born May 28, 1935, in Berea, Ky., to Walter Melvin Gallemore and Mildred Francis Reed Gallemore. When her parents divorced, Bonnie and her mother relocated to Lexington. Her mother married Lloyd Beissenherz, who adopted Bonnie as his own. On April 4, 1957, Bonnie married William R. George of Independence. To this union, three children were born: William Garton George (Cynthia), Elizabeth Jane (Betsy) George Gromowsky and Robert Charles George (Heather).

In addition to her children, she is survived by five grandchildren: Cristina (J.D.) Johnson, Rachel George, Ryan George, Natalie Finley and Olivia Gromowsky. Bonnie also was blessed with five great-grandchildren: Caleb and Mason Johnson, Harper and Cash Finley, and Arlo Gromowsky.

Bonnie was a graduate of Concordia High School and earned a degree in education from Central Missouri State University (now the University of Central Missouri). She taught second grade in Orrick for a year and was a kindergarten teacher for the Richmond R-XVI School District for 25 years. Bonnie was a beloved teacher and touched many young lives.

Bonnie was an active member of the Richmond United Methodist Church, where she was a Sunday school teacher and president of the United Methodist Women. She also sang in the chancel choir for more than 40 years.

Moreover, Bonnie was active in the American Association of University Women, Delta Kappa Gamma, Ray Couty Community Arts Association and Friends of the Farris.

Bonnie’s love of the theater resulted in starring roles in numerous productions at the Farris Theatre, including “My Fair Lady,” “The Sound of Music,” “South Pacific” and “The Music Man.” She also directed several productions, including “Li’l Abner” and “Scrooged.” Bonnie’s “Musical Potpourri” productions helped raise funds for the renovated Farris. She spent many hours helping with the renovation and considered the Farris another home.

In addition to her children and grandchildren, Bonnie is survived by her siblings, Gary (Judy) Beissenherz, Judy (David) Matthews and Bill (Kay) Beissenherz; brother-in-law, Algon D. George; and sister-in-law, Vicky George. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and of course, dear friends from across the country.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved Bill in 2021.

The family would like to express its sincerest thanks to the staff of Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation, and to Shirkey Hospice and Palliative Care for such compassionate care of our loved one.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Friends of the Farris, Shirkey Hospice and Palliative Care or the donor’s choice. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13, at the Farris Theatre, Richmond. A private family graveside service will be held at Mount Washington Cemetery, Independence. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of Bonnie with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.