Bonita Anne Bernier Howard | Eastern NC Now

    Bonita Anne Bernier Howard, lovingly known as Bonnie, 72, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 14, 2026.

    Born on February 20, 1954, in Kittery, Maine, Bonnie lived a life filled with creativity, perseverance, beauty, and love. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald D. Howard; her father, Roger Bernier; and her mother, Victoria Anne Sielicki Bernier.

    Bonnnie is lovingly remembered by her son, Matthew Howard and his wife, Kristie; her daughter, Hayley Howard Taffer and her husband, Tony "Tadpole" Taffer; and her sisters Diane Bernier Higgins and her husband Bobby; Anne Cornell; and Suzanne Bernier Considine and her husband Michael.

    She was a proud grandmother to Shelby Howard, Brianna Schmitz and her husband, Steven, Jeryn Lambries and his wife, Chloe, Haven Howard, Cody Taffer and his wife, Melanie, and Brooklyn Taffer Furlough and her husband, Jacob and Raelynn Taffer.

    She was also blessed to be a great-grandmother to Easton, Serenity, Carson, Lucas, Lakelynn, Hattie and Stevie.

    Bonnie was a woman of extraordinary talent and artistic ability. She was a brilliant jewelry maker, artist, painter, and stained-glass creator whose work reflected her eye for beauty and her creative spirit. She was an avid animal lover who adored her dogs and found joy in caring for them.

    An enthusiastic gardener with an exceptional knowledge of plants and flowers, Bonnie had a gift for nurturing life and creating beauty wherever she went. She loved all things beautiful and never passed up an opportunity for a shopping trip. Her enthusiasm for life's simple pleasures brought happiness to those around her.

    Throughout her life, Bonnie faced many chronic health challenges. Yet she refused to allow those struggles to define her. Her resilience, determination, and strength were an inspiration to her family and friends. She continued to pursue her passions and share her gifts despite the obstacles she faced.

    Bonnie knew Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, and her family finds comfort in knowing she is now free from pain and resting in His eternal presence.

    Bonnie's legacy of creativity, strength, faith, and love will live on through the family she cherished and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Howard family.