Bonnie Jean (Ruffert Smith) Newby, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on October 1, 1937, in Toledo, Ohio, Bonnie was the cherished daughter of William and Edith (Aubry) Ruffert, both of whom preceded her in death.
Bonnie was the devoted wife of Ted Smith, whom she married on July 26, 1958. He preceded her in death on April 29, 1984. She married Thomas Newby on September 13, 1987, and he preceded her in death on December 12, 2023. Bonnie is survived by her children, Michael (Linda) Smith of Bradenton, FL; Mary Beth (Jeff) Smith-Gunn, of Bryan, Ohio; Mark (Theresa Schaechterle) Smith of Bowling Green, Matthew (Lori Mika) Smith of Maumee, Ohio; Marcia (Chuck) Grizzard of Grand Rapids, OH; and Jeff (Carrie) Newby of Cincinnati, OH. Bonnie was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren – Courtney, Erika, MJ, Joshua, TC, Rachel, Jack, Josie, Trevor and CariAnn.
She was also preceded in death by her brother, David Ruffert. Her sister, Judith Herman, survives, and along with many extended family, nieces and nephews, will miss her and lovingly remember Bonnie.
An alumna of St. Vincent School of Nursing and the University of Toledo, Bonnie exemplified the values of compassion and dedication in her professional and personal life. Bonnie dedicated her life to caring for others as a registered nurse at Wood County Hospital, an educator at the Bowling Green School of Practical Nursing, and in the office of Dr. Kuebeck. In addition to her nursing career, Bonnie owned and operated Heritage Acres Campground with her family, creating cherished memories for countless visitors.
She was a committed member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, where, in addition to faithfully attending worship and Bible Study, she found joy in serving others through the quilter’s ministry, serving on the board of the women of the church and assisting in Vacation Bible School. Bonnie’s passions included cooking, spending time with her family, gardening, socializing, and traveling. Her warm and nurturing spirit touched everyone who knew her.
Visitation for Bonnie will be held at the Deck-Hanneman Funeral Home & Crematory in Bowling Green, Ohio, on Thursday, June 20, 2024, from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 21, 2024 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church at 11:00 AM, in Bowling Green, Ohio. A private burial will be held at Wood County Memory Gardens. The family requests donations be made in her memory to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Bowling Green, Ohio, or a charity of your choice.
Bonnie Newby’s legacy of love, kindness, and service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Deck-Hanneman Funeral Home www.hannemanfuneralhomes.com.
