Bonita "Bonnie" Biddle

1942 - 2024

Bonita (Bonnie) Gale Biddle went peacefully home to be with our Lord on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at the age of 81. She was born on October 4, 1942 in Akron, Ohio. Bonnie was married to her soul mate Phil Biddle for 61 years. They had one of the greatest love stories of all time, one they would be the first to give God ALL the glory for, and one which will remain a beautiful legacy to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their love for each other was something to behold, a sacred union, evidence of God's guidance in a marriage, to embody grace and mercy. Together they had 2 children Cheryl and Jeff (Michele); followed by 3 grandchildren, Brooke (Jordan & great-grandson Justus), Joshua (Lauren), and Scotty. She is also survived by her brother Bryan and her two "adopted sons" Tony & Jeron; as well as, close friends in Lodi who "adopted" her as their grandma and great-grandma, which Bonnie was more than happy to reciprocate (Katie, Allie, Rachel, Sarah, Allison & Oliver).
Bonnie brought so much joy to her family and friends; She had a wonderful sense of humor, endearing her to all she met. She ultimately found so much joy in being a part of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandson's lives. She often reflected how grateful she was to live long enough to be called a great-grandma, fondly referred to as "Bon Bon" by Justus. All the birthdays, graduations, weddings, summers riding down Mokelumne River on the pontoon boat, 4th of Julys with fireworks on Lodi lake, family vacations, and Christmases, were moments she cherished. Being together was what she treasured most. Many will remember Bonnie's beautiful smile, and her affinity for Lexi dog, her adored Border Collie.
After so many years of numerous moves throughout California and in Arizona, Bonnie & Phil finally found a place to settle their roots and they lovingly absorbed themselves in the Lodi community for 34 years. While there, they owned Christian Book-stores for 25 plus years. Their first one in Elk Grove and then Vine & Branches in Lodi. Bonnie worked diligently alongside Phil to build this business, others would say "ministry," in "livable lovable Lodi." They reached so many people for God's glory through their bookstore.
Throughout their years living in Lodi, Bonnie volunteered in the women's ministry at First Baptist Church. She enjoyed using her gifts and talents in these ministries. She was always able to add that extra special touch to any church event, wedding, or celebration. Her natural ability with interior design was amazing, making her home look so welcoming to all who entered; she had the God-given gift of hospitality. And flowers, how she loved flowers! We all stood in awe of her creative ability with floral arrangements. Symbolically, like the flowers Bonnie enjoyed so much, she helped many people who came into her life flourish and "bloom" into their full potential.
Bonnie & Phil used their home as a ministry, choosing to dedicate it to the Lord. They asked God to use their home as He wanted, and He did. Anyone and everyone who came to stay for a time in their home felt God's love there. Bonnie lovingly welcomed youth, missionaries, young couples, friends, & single moms, with open arms in need of a place to stay for awhile. There were weddings, youth group and church events in their home & backyard; baptisms in the river; bible studies in their home; and countless hours offering counseling to individuals needing someone to listen and pray over them. Bonnie was a faithful prayer warrior.
It was only 3 years ago, that Bonnie & Phil decided to move to Riverside to be closer to their grandkids and their growing family. And, as usual, they got involved in their small church within their Westmont Village community, making a loving impact on whoever they met there. We often heard comments like, "they are the nicest people we've ever met." The staff who would work with mom, said, "she's a hoot." People absolutely loved being around Bonnie. Her love for Jesus and people was contagious.
Many of you know how bravely Bonnie endured the challenges of living with Type 1 diabetes from a young age. So many days of glucose management, insulin shots, blood tests, and all the other health challenges this disease created. She managed and persevered without bitterness. Now, we rejoice for Bonnie, that finally she is no longer in pain and has the joy of spending everyday with Jesus in a restored heavenly body. That reality makes us smile when we are missing her so dearly.
As an example to us all, Bonnie treated everyone with gentleness and kindness. Most of all she loved Jesus, and because she trusted God with every part of her life, He grew her into an amazing wife, mom, grandma and friend. Those of us who were truly blessed to know, love, and be loved by Bonnie understand how meaningful it was to be in her presence: to just sit, talk and laugh with her, and to get a hug or smile from her. Each of us will carry these memories of her with us every day. We celebrate Bonnie and her life well lived; on June 23rd, we know she heard Jesus say, "well done, my good and faithful servant." There will be a void without her, but we rest in the confidence that we will see her again someday in heaven.
Bonnie's memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Lodi on Sunday, July 14, 2024 at 4pm.
2 Timothy 4:7 - "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day."