Karen Jean Bonner, 82, of Davis, WV, went to be with her Lord and Savior on November 19, 2025, in Oakland, MD. Born on September 7, 1943, in Belington, WV, she was the daughter of the late Samuel Robert and Velma Marie (Teter) Smith.
Karen, a proud West Virginia University alumna, devoted her life to family and community in the high Alleghenies of Tucker County. As a dedicated homemaker, she poured her energy into the people and places she loved, co-founding the Canaan Valley Land Owners Association and later serving as president of the Tucker County Planning Commission. She was an officer of the Canaan Valley Institute and played a pivotal role as a volunteer leader in the establishment of the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, working tirelessly to protect the sweeping wetlands and mountains she cherished.
Countless hours were spent volunteering at the Blackwater Ministerial Association, making sure no neighbor went hungry. A passionate reader with an ever-present book in hand, Karen blended her love of learning with an unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation and community service, leaving a lasting legacy of stewardship and kindness across the valley she called home.
She is survived by her children, Curtis Maxwell Bonner, Jr., and wife Robin of Davis, and Quentin Robert Bonner and wife Rebecca of Gibraltar, MI; her grandchildren, Katherine Lewis and husband Jamie, Sarah Clemons and husband Joseph, Jacob Bonner, and Kristen Hendrich and husband Kyle; and her great grandchildren, Brandon, Brooklyn, Addilyn, Roy Walker, Nora, and Beau.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Curtis Maxwell Bonner, to whom she was married on February 1, 1964; her son, Eric Brian Bonner; and her sister, Barbara Hawk and husband Charles.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blackwater Ministerial Association, PO Box 103, Davis, WV 26260.
Karen’s request for cremation was honored. There are no services scheduled at this time. The Fredlock & Fenner Funeral Homes – Davis Chapel is honored to be serving the Bonner family.
