Bonnie Lee Cairns

Bonnie Lee Cairns, 82 of Indianapolis, passed away Thursday, September 28, 2023.  Bonnie was born April 7, 1941 in Monroe, WI to the late Ernest and Margaret Grenz.  She was a graduate of Hononegah High School in Rockton, IL.  She continued her education at Willamette University, where she graduated in 1961.

Bonnie wanted most in life to be a wife, a mother, and a teacher, and she accomplished all those things.  Bonnie married James Barckley Cairns August 10, 1968; they recently celebrated their 55^th wedding anniversary.  She began her career as an elementary school teacher in Evanston, Illinois, eventually retiring from Gray Road Christian School in Indianapolis where she taught second grade.  Bonnie loved the Lord and was an active member of Burge Terrace Baptist Church.  She sang in the choir and taught Sunday School for many years.  Bonnie enjoyed playing the piano, making cards for many friends and family, bird-watching, and spending time in her garden.  But most of all she loved spending time with her family.

A private graveside service is scheduled for Tuesday, October 3 at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens.  A celebration of Bonnie’s life will take place at a later time.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, James B. Cairns; daughters, Deborah L. Cairns, Pamela J. Cairns, Heather L. Cairns; and grandson, Jaxson James Barckley Cairns.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mabel’s Rides (through Community Health Network), Good News Mission, Holy Land Ministries, and Burge Terrace Baptist Church.  Please visit www.flannerbuchanan.com to sign the online guest register.