On February 26,2024 Bonita Louise (Dillender) Smithson departed this earth. She was born December 12, 1937 in Cassville, Missouri, the daughter of  Alleen Montgomery and Alonzo Dillender and step daughter of Gay Watson.

She lived most of her youth in Washburn, Missouri with her siblings Jack, Lana and Ed Watson with whom she remained close her entire life. Also especially dear in her life was her Aunt Mildred Dillender Sullivan.

She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Carl Smithson, with whom she celebrated 66 years of marriage. Together they built a life in Neosho, Missouri, where they raised their daughter, Carla Smithson Smith, of whom she was immeasurably proud. She loved and adored both her grandson, Conner Carlson Smith, and her granddaughter, Keller Miles Smith. She was very present in their lives and they brought her great joy. Her last few years she took delight in her great grandchildren Leroy and Maya, children of Conner and his wife Anna Micklea.

Bonnie was active in the Neosho community where she was a member of the First Baptist Church. She served on the Neosho Parks & Recreation Board. She also worked several years as a courier for Forest Laboratories of Dallas, Texas. She spent many years assisting her husband as he built investment properties. We will especially remember her as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother (Mimi) and Great Grand Mimi. She adored her grandchildren and enjoyed all their activities growing up in Springfield where she and her husband spent semi-retirement. Bonita loved her farm, animals and the lake cabin.  But her greatest joy was always her family to which she was lovingly devoted. She will be fondly remembered by all of us who will remain forever grateful for her.

She is survived by her husband Carl Smithson, daughter Carla Smithson Smith and her husband Wayne, her grandson Conner Carlson Smith and his wife Anna and greatgrandchildren Leroy & Maya (Rogersville, MO), and her granddaughter Keller Miles Smith (Dallas, TX). Also her sister Lana Cantwell, brother Ed Watson (Jan), sister-in-law Bea Watson (preceded in death by brother Jack) and several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held at Green Lawn Funeral Home East on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 with visitation at 10 AM and the service at 11 AM.