Bonita Helen Graboski (Burson), 70, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 18, 2017, surrounded by her three children.

Bonnie was born on March 21, 1947, in Alliance, OH, to the late John and Juanita Burson (Brady). She grew up with her 7 siblings in Alliance, OH, and moved to CT in 1978 after meeting Tom, her husband of 44 years. Bonita was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She worked in the Simsbury Public Schools as a Special Education Paraprofessional for 21 years. She looked forward to going to work every day, as she treasured her students and coworkers. She was an active member of St. Ann’s Parish in Avon, serving as the lead coordinator of the baptismal robe sewing ministry.

Rarely do you meet someone so generous, compassionate, loving, and joyful, but Bonnie was all of these things. She possessed an exceptional ability to remain in high spirits, and her positive attitude touched everyone who knew her. Her smile and her singing voice brightened the darkest day. She was a true ray of light in the world, the embodiment of love and beauty.

Bonnie was a vibrant woman, full of energy and joy, especially with her beloved grandson, Nate. She loved bargain hunting with her daughters, happy hours, cooking, sewing, puzzles and gardening. On weekends, she often took road trips with her late husband, spending time at the casino after hitting the beach.

Bonnie is survived by her daughter, Michelle Grady and her husband, Daniel, and their son, Nathan, of Simsbury; her daughter, Ann, of West Hartford; her son, Michael, of Seattle; and her siblings, Janice Scott, John Burson, her twin Juanita Burson, Merry Braden, Dino Burson, and Mark Burson, of Alliance, OH. In addition to her parents, Bonnie is predeceased by her husband, Thomas, and her brother, Danny Burson.

Calling hours will be held at Vincent Funeral Home at 880 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury, on Friday, June 23, from 5-7pm. A mass of remembrance will be held at St. Ann’s Church of Avon on Saturday, June 24, at 10am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Arc - Favarh (favarh.org).