Bonnie Kay Leach, 77, of Hardin passed away Friday, Aug. 25, 2023, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond. Bonnie was born July 4, 1946, in Henrietta, the daughter of Cleatus Van and Elsie Lee (Swafford) Burnine. She was united in marriage to James A. “Jimmy” Leach of Hardin on Sept. 9, 1990. He survives of the home. Additional survivors include three daughters, Kim (Mike) Class of Liberty, Amy (Jeff) Wirsig of Richmond and Laurinda (Bennie) Almendares of St. Robert; one son, Jonathan Leach of Hardin; seven grandchildren, Ava, Lily and Linkin Wirsig, Jake and Zach Class, and R.J. and Emma Almendares; one brother, Cleatus Burnine of Richmond; one sister, Terrie (Donnie) Mais of Lake of the Ozarks; and one sister-in-law, Mary Jo Burnine of Lee’s Summit.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Harold Henry “Hank” (JoAnn) Burnine and Robert Wayne Burnine; sister, Sherivan McGill; and sister-in-law, JoAnn Burnine.

Bonnie graduated from Richmond High School. She was a member of the class of 1964.

She was a homemaker for many years, but her love for children prompted her to open Busy Bee Preschool, which she owned for 12 years.

Bonnie eventually began working at the U.S. Postal Service, where she worked for more than 20 years. She developed many friendships with her coworkers and residents on her postal route.

Her love for children came full circle when she was blessed with seven grandchildren. She spent many weekends hosting bunking parties, having endless adventures and attending sporting events. When she wasn’t hosting bunking parties, she was traveling to all 50 states with Jim, the love of her life, on their beloved trike. They traveled extensively with friends and family, and enjoyed all things together.

Bonnie also enjoyed playing bridge. She played bridge with the Bridge Babes for more than 45 years. They loved to travel and took 13 trips around the country. They made many great memories.

She especially loved her big extended family, family dinners and decorating for the holidays. During her down time, she loved reading and sewing. She loved telling stories of her childhood to her nieces, nephews and grandchildren, and those stories are repeated today.

Bonnie was an amazing person who had a smile for everyone. She was genuine and loyal. Bonnie will be missed dearly by all her family and friends.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Richmond Education Foundation. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Inurnment will be in Richmond Memory Gardens.

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