Obituary of Bonny Frances Davis

Bonny Frances Davis, 91-year-old, lifelong resident of Ripley County, MO, departed this life, Thursday, August 3, 2023. She was born September 30, 1931, in Handy, MO, to the late Elmer Jefferson and Catherine (Haney) Probst.

Bonny was an extraordinary mother, grandmother, friend, and neighbor. She was kind and supportive to all she knew. Even though she was a perfectionist, she didn’t require that of others. Bonny remained active in all walks of life even in her later years. She was committed to walking and exercising, participating in the Senior Olympics for at least 17 years. Her dedication and devotion to her church and family motivated her to lead singing in the Handy Church as well as playing the guitar and piano. Bonny loved to share her joy of the Lord with her grandchildren teaching them Sunday School songs, which they had a lot of time to learn and sing during their 30-mile drive to church. Bonny loved to play Yahtzee whether with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, or playing alone with five or six games going on at once. Bonny was Valedictorian of her high school class, and after raising her family, she decided to extend her love of learning and went back to college earning an Associates Degree. With her fluent vocabulary, Bonny was a perfect representative from the Handy Community to write a weekly news column for The Prospect-News for over 40 years. She also contributed to The Current Local. Bonny had served Ripley County in her role as a case worker for the State of Missouri, Division of Family Services, from which she later retired.

In 1949, Bonny married Henry Davis. He preceded her in death in 1979. She was also preceded by a son, Harry Davis; her sisters, Pollyanna Sisco and Peggy Ray; and brothers, Elmer Probst, Jr., Eugene Probst, Jim Probst, and John Probst.

Surviving are her children, Jimmy (Pat) Davis, June (Joe) Watson, Johnny Davis, and Karen Gant; daughter-in-law, Glenda Davis; and sister, Maggie Adair; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, beginning at noon with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Handy Cemetery.

More obituary information and details on Bonny’s life will be shared at the funeral service.