Bonnie Mae McFarland, 71, of Carthage, passed away at Oak Lane Care Center in Stronghurst, Illinois at 5:20 AM , on Wednesday, December 23, 2020.

Bonnie was born February 2, 1949 in Marquette, Michigan, the daughter of Howard J. and Viola J. (Basal) Johnson. She graduated from Marquette High School in Marquette, Michigan. On July 26, 1985, she was united in marriage to Ray A. McFarland at Rand Park in Keokuk, Iowa. Bonnie had a lifelong desire to help people with learning disabilities. She worked with special needs at the Ferris School and the Hancock County Mental Health Department for many years. She also operated a home respite care in her home, taking care of many elderly people. Bonnie had a deaf and hearing ministry, teaching many the arts of sign language, children and adults alike. She was an active member of the Burnside Christian Church teaching Sunday School for the 2-3 year olds for over 30 years. 

Bonnie is survived by her husband Ray, of Carthage, two sisters Carole Wiggins, of Marquette, Michigan, Lynn Giles, of Dothan, Alabama, one brother, Allen Johnson, of Marquette, Michigan. Three sons, Robert (Debbie) Kurrle, of Oglesby, Illinois, Mark (Kristen) Kurrle, of Peru, Illinois and Travis Kurrle of Macomb, Illinois. Three step sons, Eric (Erin) McFarland of Pekin, Illinois, Jason McFarland of Pekin, Illinois and Christopher (Cath) McFarland, of Louin, Mississippi, nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Judy Labreche, and an aunt and uncle; brother-in-law, Al Labreche and Jack Wiggens.

Private services will be held at Printy Funeral Home in Carthage, with interment to follow at Moss Ridge Cemetery in Carthage. There will be no formal visitation, but the register book will be available to sign at 9 AM, Monday, January 4. Memorials may be directed to the Burnside Christian Church, Deaf and Hearing ministry. Printy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.