Thomas Claude Bonnette, 80, of Arthurdale, passed away Friday, March 7, 2025, in his home, in the presence of his wife of 57 years, Dyanna. Born in Arthurdale and affectionately known as Tommy, he was a son of the late Claude W. Bonnette and Hazel Jenkins Bonnette.
Tommy proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, from 1963 through 1967, and was trained as a heating specialist.
After his discharge, he briefly worked in Jamestown, N.Y., at Crescent tool company.
He met and married, his wife, Dyanna, and soon moved back to Arthurdale to start their family.
He continued his trade as a heating specialist at West Virginia University, The Department of Energy and retired from EG & G.
Tommy was a member of Mill Chapel United Brethren in Christ Church, where he served as a board member.
Tom was also a member of the Windy Ridge Remote Control Flying Club. He loved to build and fly his planes, helicopters and drones, and yes, he crashed a few. Tommy loved the outdoors and had a passion for hunting, fishing and camping. He could also make others laugh with his quick sense of humor.
Tom is survived by his wife, Dyanna: his daughter, and his only granddaughter, Madeline (Maddy); his son, Sean Thomas Bonnette and spouse Lacey of Fairmont; two sisters: Betty Jean McLaughlin, who resides in the Bonnette original homestead in Arthurdale, and Claudette Webb of Surfside Beach, S.C. His memory lives on through many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sandra (Suzie) Davis, and his brother-in-law, Richard Davis of Arthurdale.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating, in his memory, to Mill Chapel UBIC, 6732 Kingwood Pike, Reedsville, WV 265457; WV Caring, P.O. Box 760, Arthurdale, WV 26520; or Friends Thru Cancer, P.O. Box 58, Kingwood, WV 26537.
The family would like to express its fond appreciation for the professional, loving, and respectful care from Amedisys Hospice of Morgantown provided to Tommy in his final days. This enabled his wife to provide comfort and care, in their home. Members of this organization quickly became our extended family. Friends, family and neighbors, paid their respects and said, goodbye to Tom in the days prior to his passing through visits, texts, and phone conversations.
Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, March 28, at the West Virginia National Cemetery in Grafton, with full military honors.
“Fly high Tommy and keep them laughing”.
www.morganfuneralhomewv.com
