On September 1, 2023, Bonnie York Schiller died as she lived, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Meriden CT in 1948, she lived in Willimantic with her husband Howard for most of her adult life. Bonnie loved to entertain and laugh with her many friends and family. She was hostess for countless holiday celebrations and special occasions. Known for her attention to detail, Bonnie managed her husband’s law practice and Thanksgiving with equal diligence and grace. Her smile brightened our lives and her laugh lifted the spirits of everyone she met. To know Bonnie was to love Bonnie.
Bonnie worked over 40 years with her husband Howard who was by her side until she passed from mortal sight. In addition to entertaining family and friends, Bonnie and Howard often travelled to island destinations together and enjoyed many cruises. Over the past 20 years Bonnie spent winter months in Florida, working remotely and telephoning family and friends daily. She and Howard recently relocated to Bloomfield in order to enjoy more frequent contact with grandchildren.
Bonnie was predeceased by her mother Esther Katz Smith and her brother Garry York. Bonnie is survived by her husband of 51 years Howard, their biological children Joshua Schiller (Jill) of Cincinnati and Elizabeth Schiller (Dan) of West Hartford and her child by choice Leslie Johnson O’Brien (Tony) of Willimantic. She is also survived by her sisters, Debra York and Michelle Serra. Bonnie viewed her gift to the world as grandchildren – Katie, Maggie, Samantha, Reagan, Jake and Ben.
Bonnie will be laid to rest after a graveside service at Temple B’Nai Israel cemetery in Mansfield on Monday, September 4 at 3 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Windham Area Interfaith Ministries, 866 Main Street, Willimantic or The Hospital for Special Care, 2150 Corbin Avenue, New Britain.
The family would like to thank the many health care providers at The Hospital for Special Care whose kindnesses made her last illness less devastating. Bonnie will be missed by everyone who knew her.
