Theda Marie Bonner
December 9, 1962 – March 25, 2021
Theda Marie Bonner entered this life on December 9th, 1962 in New York, NY while her family was vacationing; however, she was raised and lived in Richmond, VA. She was the daughter of the late Helena Bonner Bell and Charlie Brown. Theda was preceded in death by her Grandmother who helped raise her, Pauline Bonner; one son, Tylen Bonner, and her brother, Leslie Bell.
Theda was educated in the Richmond Public School System and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1981. After high school, she attended Virginia Union University before enrolling in Beauty School where she fell in love with cosmetology. Theda was a beautician for more than 25 years, working at Waves on Leigh, Mahogany Ladies & Gents, and then later opened her own in-home salon, Theda’s Hair Improvement. She also worked in customer service for Capital One for several years.
Theda was a dedicated mom, and not just to her daughter Teal, but to all entering her life. She was a mentor, big sister to many, and a faithful friend to others. Theda was admired for her loving and kind spirit and would open her home to everyone. Her love of music and singing brought happiness to all around, especially when she would burst into song at a moment’s notice. On more than one occasion, you may get a side of Zhane’ or a fresh batch of margaritas with your wash and set. The laughter from her salon can still be heard. Theda touched so many lives with her kindness and infectious personality. She held her relationships close and treasured them. As many of you reading this can attest to becoming lifelong friends and family.
To know Theda was to know her strong will, and throughout her battle with cancer, she persevered through her journey.
Theda leaves to cherish her memory a beloved daughter, Teal Bachelor; brother Oliver Bell; sister Tiiana Ellis; beloved dog, Louie; seven nieces, Shanelle Bell, Jasmine Brame, Alana Bell, Dru Ellis, Gia Ellis, Ehrica Waters, and Domeesha Harris; devoted best friend of 51 years, Cherly Lunsford Jackson and a multitude of cousins, other relatives, and friends. Theda also had an extended family of cousins that grew up in the same household, Mattie White, Toni Chism, and Gerald Bonner.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 2 at Affinity Funeral Service – Richmond Chapel, 2720 Enterprise Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23294.
Click here to join the live-streamed funeral service for Theda Marie Bonner.
My prayers and condolences to the family and especially to Oliver. Theda was a loving and wonderful woman whose love for family was ever available to all of her cousins. Gone to soon but resting in His arms.
Your Wings were ready, but our Hearts 💔 were not. Until we all gather again rest easy, Friend.
My prayers and condolences goes out to Teal and the family, rest in paradise Theda.
Prayers of peace , and strength to Teal and the family. I pray the GOD of all comfort , will comfort you in your time of need , as you celebrate the life and legacy of your mom and love one . GOD will give you exactly what you need, when you need it, as only our HEAVENLY FATHER can do.
I’d like to offer Prayers and peace for Teal and Theda’s family for this family loss. The only way to describe her is just the purest form
of love, acceptance and devotion to family and friends. I will never forget you🙏❤️
Sending my condolences to Teal and family. Theda was the most fun, kind and loving person. I can go on and on about all of the fun times we had. We can laugh about the most recent wawa run (you giving me the wrong address 🙂) and the long conversations we would have. No more pain, rest peacefully and enjoy Paradise.
My heartfelt condolences to you Teal, Oliver, and the family. I am silent but know God holds my friend close.
Echoing my mom Karen Gill, as I send my condolences to Teal, my cousin Oliver and Theda’s extended circle of loved ones. I will always remember Theda’s strong spirit and graciousness as a host. A beautiful person inside and out. May her spirit rest with our Heavenly Father, our ancestors, and her son.
Rest well Theda. You will be missed. Love and condolences to Teal and the family. The joy and laughter she gave will live on forever. 🌹💜
Rest in Paradise There. Praying for the family. She will be missed💞🙏🙏
Rest in Paradise Theda. Praying for the family. She will be missed💞🙏🙏
Rest easy my friend! I will always love you the burden appeared to heavy to carry. I will my you my first and best hairdresser😪