Bonnie Elaine Hinkle

Bonnie Elaine Hinkle, 78, of Gravois Mills, Missouri, passed away at her home on Thursday afternoon, October 9, 2025.
A Service and Celebration of Life will be held at the Versailles Civic Center, 201 W Jasper St, Versailles, MO, 65084, on Sunday October 26, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Family and friends are invited to come together to honor and remember Bonnie.
Bonnie was born on January 11, 1947, in New Franklin, Missouri, the daughter of Bessie Lea Potter. She grew up in Rocheport and later moved to Columbia, where she built a life filled with hard work, creativity, and devotion to her family and faith.
Throughout her life, Bonnie was known as an incredibly dedicated worker. She spent many years in the restaurant industry, including working alongside her husband at Dale's Café. Her gift for cooking extended well beyond the workplace - ensuring every guest left her home with a full belly and a full heart.
Bonnie also worked as a house cleaner and spent nearly 20 years as the front desk receptionist at the College of Arts & Science's Advisement Center at the University of Missouri, where she was respected for her strong work ethic and kind spirit.
Bonnie was devoted to her church and her dear friends. She was always working on becoming the best version of herself.
In addition to her work, Bonnie was a talented crafter. She lovingly created quilts, blankets, pillows, and fabric dolls that reflected her creativity and care. Her handmade gifts brought comfort and joy to her family and friends, leaving behind a legacy stitched with love.
Above all, Bonnie was a devoted grandmother and great-grandmother who delighted in spoiling her grandchildren and cherishing every moment with them.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dale Hinkle; her sons John Hinkle, Allen Hinkle, and Tim Reichard; her mother, Bessie Potter; her sister, Gertie Purvis; brothers Ralph Brightwell, Walter Jr. Swearengin, William (Gene) Brightwell, and Donald Brightwell; her mother-in-law Estella Hinkle; brother-in-law Kenny Hinkle; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Bonnie is survived by her son Jerry Brightwell; grandchildren Ryan (Megan) Reichard, Renee (Dylan) Pankaskie; Jeremy (Necia) Reichard, Jason (Luritza) Reichard; Michelle LeRette- their mother Linda Reichard; many great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Mary Swearingen, Sharon Carl, and Carol Hinkle.
Bonnie will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her kindness, strength, creativity, and the unwavering love she gave to all who knew her.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.