In Loving Memory of Bronson "Bonnie" King Jr

October 31, 1944 – July 6, 2025

Bronson "Bonnie" King, Jr. of Winston-Salem, NC, entered eternal rest on Sunday, July 6, 2025, surrounded by the love of his devoted wife and family. With a heart full of grace and a life marked by faith, Bonnie transitioned peacefully into the arms of the Lord.

Born on October 31, 1944, in Winston-Salem, Bonnie was the beloved son of the late Hazel Matthews King and Branson King Sr. He was a proud graduate of the historic Atkins High School class of 1963. Education and growth were always important to Bonnie, and he went on to earn multiple mechanical maintenance certifications through employer-based learning, reflecting his lifelong dedication to hard work and personal advancement.

On December 23, 1965, Bonnie married the love of his life, Catherine Mitchell. Their union, grounded in deep love and unwavering commitment, lasted 59 beautiful years. Together, they raised three beloved children, Rodney, Darryl, and Kimberly, and built a legacy rooted in family, faith, and unconditional love. Their bond was more than a marriage; it was a true partnership, full of laughter, strength, and enduring devotion.

Bonnie dedicated 39 years of loyal service to RJ Reynolds as a Mechanical Technician. His talents and work ethic not only earned him respect among colleagues but also gave him the opportunity to travel and train others in Puerto Rico and Germany. Known for his problem-solving skills, his willingness to help, and his calm, steady presence, Bonnie became a go-to figure in the workplace, someone who led with both humility and excellence.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bonnie lived a life filled with passion and joy. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone, especially if it involved baseball or fishing, two of his greatest loves. In his early years, Bonnie proudly played in the semi-pro baseball League Cleveland Sluggers. Grandsons Brandon, Jahmarcus, and Johnathan spent countless hours fishing with "Grandpa" at Winston Lake.

Another treasured ritual in Bonnie's life was his time spent with the "Breakfast Club," a tight-knit group of lifelong friends, and the Hanes mall walkers, where he shared coffee and conversation.  It's fair to say he had perfect attendance for decades. That time of fellowship, laughter, and connection brought him immense joy.

Bonnie was also a pillar of his faith community. A lifelong member of Antioch Christian Church, he served in numerous roles with joy and dedication: church chairman, deacon, usher, and enthusiastic choir member. Whether singing in the mass or men's choir, or helping lead behind the scenes, Bonnie served with a servant's heart. His faith was real, visible, and inspiring, a true reflection of his love for God and people.

Those who knew Bonnie will remember his booming, contagious laugh; his tender and soulful singing of Luther Vandross and Johnny Mathis; his famous beef ribs cooked with love; and most of all, his kindness, generosity, and unwavering presence. He had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and cared for, and that, perhaps, is the greatest legacy of all.

Bonnie leaves behind a family who adored him and a legacy that will live on for generations. He is survived by his loving wife, Catherine King; his children, Rodney (Anita) King, Darryl (Cherry) King, and Kimberly (Johnathan) Hatcher; his grandchildren, Brandon (Monai) King, Jahmarcus King, Johnathan Hatcher II, and his beloved "Honey," granddaughter Depreace King; great-grandchildren, Skyler Evans and Maison King; his brother, Marvin King; sisters, Dorothy Douglas and Annetta Payne; cherished friends, James Chisholm and Charles Hunt; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and extended family.

Bonnie's life was a blessing. His memory is a treasure. He is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith, family, and love will continue to shine brightly in all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Friday, July 11, 2025 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held 12:00pm Saturday, July 12, 2025 at St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church, 5000 Noble St, Winston-Salem, NC 27105, with Reverend James A. Gilliam officiating.  Interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens, 3663 Piedmont Memorial Dr., Winston-Salem, NC 27107. The family visitation will be held from 11:00 am until 12:00pm on Saturday at the Church.