Bonita Diane Roberts

1947 - 2025

Bonita Diane Roberts, 78, of Keokuk, Iowa, passed away Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, at Hannibal Regional Hospital in Hannibal, Missouri.

She was born March 12, 1947, in Keokuk, the daughter of Robert Lee and Anne Burke Shark.

Bonita graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1965.

On Feb. 17, 1968, Bonita was united in marriage with Jerry Boyd Roberts in Carthage, Illinois. He preceded her in death on Sept. 22, 2025.

In her younger years, Bonita worked at B&B Tap. She later devoted herself to caring for children, lovingly babysitting for many families in the community. She also worked briefly at Todd Uniforms before beginning a career at Keokuk Area Hospital, where she remained until her retirement.

Bonita delighted in life's simple pleasures. She especially loved motorcycle rides, which gave her a sense of freedom and adventure. Most of all, she cherished time with her family. Known for her nurturing spirit, she was a motherly figure to all, offering advice, comfort, and encouragement. Though small in stature, she was mighty in heart; spirited, feisty, and deeply devoted to those she loved.

She is survived by her daughter Rhonda Carel of Kansas City, Missouri; two sons, Jerry Roberts II (Terri) of Hannibal, Missouri, and Jamie Roberts (Beverly) of Keokuk; nine grandchildren: Jadelyn, Taelor, Tawny, Patrick (Nicole), Sierra, Johnnie, Harley, James, and Anthony; and 13 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two siblings, Connie McNeill and Tina Reid; sisters-in-law, Jean Kratzer (Jack) of Fort Madison, and Bonnie Meyers of Keokuk; several nieces and nephews and special caregivers, Dan Harlow, Valencia "Bennett" Caldwell, and Stacey Meyers. We don't know what we would have done without them.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Ron "Sharky" Shark; her brother-in-law, Larry Roberts; and a niece, Kelli Shark.

A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 19 at Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, with Doug Horner officiating.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home, with the family meeting with friends at that time.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com.