Charles Bonham Jr.

Charles Bonham Jr. June 1, 1927 — Oct. 27, 2008Precious in the sight of God is the death of His saints. Charles H. Bonham Jr. of Duncan fought a courageous fight of affliction, all the while being faithful to his God and the Gospel entrusted to him. He truly fought the good fight, finishing his course in faith looking forward with his loving Father’s approval to his reward and the crown of righteousness. He leaves a legacy of Christian love, prayer and mentoring.Charles went to his heavenly rest on Monday, Oct. 27, 2008, at the age of 81.A celebration of his life will take place at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at graveside in Duncan Cemetery with the Rev. Harold Metheny officiating and with a special tribute by Pauline Heathington. Arrangements are under direction of Carter-Smart Funeral Home.Family visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.He was born June 1, 1927, in Snyder, the youngest of three children born to Charlie H. Bonham and Minnie M. Rowden Bonham. In 1944, he married his best friend and childhood sweetheart, Alyce Huggins, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage.He retired from Koch Oil Co. in 1983.Throughout his life, he was a man of service. In World War II, he served his country in the U.S. Navy. He served his community at different times as a Gideon, councilman, trustee and mayor.He served his church, Bethesda Church of God, in many capacities from Sunday school superintendent, to deacon, to trustee, to janitor, to repairman. He was a dedicated servant, always willing to extend a hand up.He is survived by his wife, Alyce of the home; a daughter, Linda J. Jones, her husband, Douglas, and two grandchildren: Amanda Jones-Todd and her husband, Nate, and Todd Charles Jones; a brother-in-law, Jack Fulton of Terral; a sister-in-law, Hazel Bonham of California; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, William R. Bonham; and a sister, Clara Bonham Fuller.Bearers will be Todd Jones, Douglass Jones, Bobby Dodson, Ralph Wiseman, Lonnie Mansell and Alton Hutto.We who are left behind, whether family members, friends or acquaintances, will miss his quiet smile that spoke volumes as well as his merry eyes that looked upon all with Christian love.In heaven, Charles will be rejoicing and basking in perfect health.