Martin Ray Bonham

It is with heavy hearts yet profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Martin Ray Bonham, who departed this life on February 8, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on May 18, 1936, in Evansville, Indiana, Ray was a man whose presence was a blessing to all who knew him. Ray's journey was marked by a deep sense of duty and dedication. A proud veteran, he served four honorable years in the United States Air Force, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his country. This spirit of service extended into his professional life, where he devoted over 40 years to General Motors, retiring with a legacy of hard work and integrity. In 1962, Ray married the love of his life, Deanna, in Anderson, Indiana. Together, they shared 53 wonderful years, raising three beautiful daughters and creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Deanna preceded him in death, yet their love story remains an enduring testament to their commitment and joy. Ray was a man of profound faith, his life deeply rooted in his spiritual beliefs. A longtime member of his church, he carried his faith with him in every endeavor, guiding his actions and his love for his family. His legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. His passions were as varied as they were joyful. An avid golfer, Ray spent countless hours on the course, finding peace and pleasure in the game. He was a lover of puzzles, often found with a Sudoku book in hand, enjoying the challenge and triumph of each solved brain teaser. A true sports enthusiast, Ray's heart belonged to the Indiana Hoosiers and the Tampa Bay Rays, teams he cheered for with unwavering enthusiasm. Ray is preceded in death by his parents, Nettie and Martin Bonham; his beloved wife, Deanna Bonham; his son-in-law, Donald Hole; his granddaughter, Megan Rider; his grandson, DJ Hole; and many cherished brothers and sisters. His memory is lovingly carried forward by his two devoted daughters, Dawndeena Hole and Angela Bonham, his sister inlaw Carol Sue Rothermel, his sister, June Snurpus; his two nieces Heather McClain & Stephanie (Dave) Carroll. He leaves behind a legacy in his grandchildren: Miranda (Buford) Carter, Marissa Rider, Donyale (David) Storey, Nathan Rhodes, Hannah (Joel) Thompson, Caleb Kennedy, Atley (Kyle) Manola, Ericka (Caleb) Gaw, Ethan Savoldi, Brianna (Alek) Zellers, and Jasmyn Short. His great-grandchildren, Hailey Rider, Isabella Pagan, Kayla Carter, Myles Carter, Riley Heritage, Liliana Heritage, Kalynn Storey, Daniel Storey, David Lee Storey, and Emersyn Rhodes, will carry his spirit into the future. A celebration of Ray's life will be held on February 25, 2026, at 12:30 PM at the Sarasota National Cemetery, located at 9810 State Rd. 72. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ray's memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting his spirit of generosity and kindness. Martin Ray Bonham's life was a tapestry woven with love, service, and faith. As we bid farewell, we cherish the memories and the indelible mark he left on our hearts. His was a life well-lived, and he will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.