Tommy Ray Bonner was born in Carrollton, Alabama, to the union of Lonnie and Virginia Bonner. After graduating from Pickens County Training School, he relocated to Cincinnati and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. Shortly thereafter, he met the love of his life, Sallye Harris, and they were united in marriage on March 17, 1968. A proud Marine, he served in the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion and received numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon.Following an honorable discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps, he joined James Temple Church of God in Christ under the pastorate of the late Bishop William Morgan James. Upon his appointment as Deacon, he served the ministry with immense zeal and conviction. He deeply admired Bishop James, who was instrumental in his spiritual maturity. After Bishop James’ passing, he continued his ministerial service under the leadership of Pastor Joel James, until the founding of Higher Ground Ministries in 2002 by his brother-in-love, Pastor Earl D. Finney. Deacon Bonner was deeply honored and committed to serving Pastor and Lady Finney as well as the entire congregation. He truly enjoyed an unyielding connection with his Higher Ground Family.Driven by his love for the ministry, he was appointed Deacon Chairman, a role he performed with great passion and enthusiasm. In recognition of his exemplary dedication, he was awarded the Higher Ground Ministries’ Humanitarian Award. He epitomized the deacon described in 1 Timothy 3:8-13:8Likewise must the deacons be grave, not double tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon being found blameless. 11 Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Deacon Bonner was employed at OPW Dover Corporation and later Queen City Metro for 31 years. He truly enjoyed his profession, as it afforded him the opportunity to meet new friends and utilize his skills in training transit operators. He was a proud member of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 627 and the Metro Share Committee.

He was very excited to welcome retirement, during which he took on new roles in gardening and traveling. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, whom he adored. He proudly created “Poppy’s Snack Shop,” which he kept supplied with premium beverages and goodies for his grandchildren, visitors, and even his special neighborhood four-legged friends. Deacon Bonner’s enduring legacy will forever be cherished by his wife of nearly 58 years, Sallye Harris Bonner; his son, Corey Justin Bonner, Sr. (Shannon); his daughter, Bethany Joy Shropshire (Christopher); and his three grandchildren: Courtney, Corey, Jr., and Kellan. He is also survived by his brothers-in-love, Pastor Earl Finney, Ollie Welch, and Willie Frank Ivey; and his sisters-in-love, Evang. Dorothy Finney, Gussie Mae Welch, and Verna Dean Harris; special nieces/nephews extending exceptional love: Hope Finney, Esq., David Finney, Dr. Lisa Welch, Rebecca Ivey, Travious Ivey, Wanda Mitchell, Claudia Dobson, Dara Williams, as well as a host of additional nieces, nephews, great nieces/nephews, and devoted friends.

Deacon Bonner frequently reminded his wife and children, “I’m not worried, I’m in God’s hands!” His faith never wavered. Take your well-deserved rest, Brave Soldier!

It is with profound sadness that we announce the heavenly transition of Deacon Tommy Ray Bonner, age 83, of Fairfield, Ohio, who entered eternal rest on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was born on Monday, October 26, 1942, in Carrollton, Alabama.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Higher Ground Ministries House of Favor, 1391 E. Crescentville Road, Cincinnati (45246). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 12:00 pm. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

He will be laid to rest at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 West Third Street, Dayton, Ohio 45428.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Bonner family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Bonner family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.