Bonnie C. Ribley

Bonnie Jean Ribley, nee Corley, passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at her home in Zionsville, Indiana. It was 3 months and 3 days after her 100th birthday. She created a lasting legacy through her love for her family, her affinity for her neighbors, and her willingness and ability to make even a stranger feel a part of the flock. Born on January 5, 1926, in Urbana, Indiana, her humble beginnings made way for a life filled with creativity, ingenuity, and an ability to fix practically anything. Although she was a self-professed “homemaker”, the titles of electrician, seamstress, baker, carpenter, mechanic, dog whisperer, caretaker, gardener, and scholar were also appropriate.

Although short in stature, her very presence at gatherings of any sort was commanding, yet warm. She loved her coffee hot, her Diet Mountain Dew cold, and her lemon drops fresh. Her artistry was unmatched, and she was as handy with oil paints and a canvas as she was with a cordless drill. Over the years, her creations included wooden toy sets, floral wreaths, outfits and dresses, rewired lamps, repaired car bumpers, latchhook rugs, custom furniture, and kitchen-sink casseroles. Her most recent years were spent playing old-school solitaire, working crossword and jigsaw puzzles, and birdwatching. She had a backyard menagerie of plants and wildlife, and as recently as last summer, she was out on her riding lawn mower, stubbornly mowing her own yard.

But of all her achievements, it was obvious to anyone that knew her, that she was most proud of her family. She was a doting mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and there was never a time she did not share her home with at least one dog or cat. The ability to love and be loved was her greatest achievement of all.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Max. She is survived by her three daughters Cindy Heimlicher, Terri Ribley, Jackie Wagley (spouse Jeff); four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Her legacy is well-preserved, her love unyielding, and her memory cherished.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Audubon Society (National Audubon Society), so that Bonnie’s affinity for birds of all species can continue in her honor.