Bonnie Louise Gallemore Beissenherz George was born in Berea, Kentucky, on May 28, 1935, 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 was also 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 UCM). She taught second grade in Orrick for a year and was a kindergarten teacher for the Richmond RXVI 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 over 40 years. Bonnie was active in the American Association of University Women, Delta Kappa Gamma, and Ray Couty Community Arts Association and Friends of the Farris.

Bonnie's love of the theatre resulted in starring roles in numerous productions at the Farris Theatre. To name a few, "My Fair Lady," "The Sound of Music," "South Pacific," and "The Music Man." She also directed several productions including "Lil 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 siblings: Gary (Judy) Beissenherz, Judy (David) Matthews, Bill (Kay) Beissenherz, brother-in-law, Algon D. George and sister-in-law, Vicky George. She leaves 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 their 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 Donor's Choice.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, September 13, 2024, at the Farris Theatre, Richmond, Mo.  Private family graveside service will be held at Mount Washington Cemetery, Independence, Missouri.  Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of arrangements.  Please remember to share your memories of Bonnie with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.