Bonnie Jernigan

I never thought I would ever be one to start a GoFundMe page. I also never thought I would start one after unexpectedly losing one of my best friends, Bonnie Jernigan. There are not enough incredible things that I can say about her that I know you all felt for her too. There are also not enough words to describe the utter heartache and devastation we are all experiencing. We unexpectedly lost our sweet Bonnie on Thursday, July 7, 2022. She was surrounded by two of her favorite people in her final moments who loved her unconditionally. Bonnie has left so many people who absolutely loved and adored her, but no one loved and adored her more than her 19 yr old daughter, Keilani. The devastation of losing Bonnie has been crippling at times, which brings me to this request: instead of flowers, please consider donating. Unfortunately, this tragedy has fallen on her daughter's shoulders. I know our sweet Bonnie wouldn't want Keilani to handle or pay for this alone, and any help or amount of donation would help offset these costs and relieve a tremendous amount of stress. Our goal is $10,000. The funeral expense is $8053; however, a few other expenses will also need to be covered. Any extra donations over our goal will go to her daughter as she will now be navigating her life without her mother. I know Bonnie would be so grateful that her friends and loved ones came together to help relieve any stress or anxiety we could during this difficult time. Any amount that you are comfortable donating will be greatly appreciated. The visitation and service will be held early next week (we will post detailed information once we have paid and finalized dates), which puts us in a time crunch to collect the donations in time. The total of $8053 must be paid before the end of the day tomorrow, Fri, July 15, 2022.

Bonnie was loved by so many of you. I know you are just as devastated by this loss as we are. I don't think I have ever met a sweeter, kinder soul, one of the few people we could depend on for a hug, a laugh, or a Snickers. She always put everyone else's needs before hers and did it with that adoring, genuine smile. She was the one you called when you had a bad day, when you had a fantastic day, and when you had good news to share. She was always encouraging and supportive and rarely ever complained. She had such an infectious smile, and her positive, loving, and kind soul just radiated from within. She will be missed so much by so many.

Your consideration to donate would mean and help so much. But, regardless of donations, if anyone is having difficulty processing this loss, I hope you have someone close that you can count on for support. And if you do not have a sound support system, I can be that person for you, along with some of her other friends and loved ones. It does not make one weak to seek help, advice, guidance, or just needing someone to listen or lend a hug. I have vowed to work on this since we lost our friend/loved one... along w spreading kindness. We all need to find the courage to reach out when necessary. And in honor of Bonnie's memory, let's all practice more compassion and kindness. Thank you again for your consideration and kindness as we all try to navigate this life without our sweet Nugget.

Cordially,

Kari Sheppard