Edith Mae Daugherty

Edith Mae Daugherty,85, Lakeland

August 23, 1938 - November 18, 2023

Edith Mae Daugherty, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, went home to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the age of 85.

Edith, known by most as Bonnie, was born on August 23, 1938 in River Rouge, Michigan to Hibbard J Mack and Sarah Rebecca Schuder. Bonnie was the youngest of 8 children. Growing up she had many opportunities to babysit her nieces and nephews. Aunt Bunny, as she was affectionately called, was famous for performing back flips for them when she was in her 20’s. They remember her fondly for her kindness and all the fun she had with them. 

Bonnie enlisted in the United States Air Force, where she was an Airman 2nd Class. She served many years until she was honorably discharged August 26, 1958. After her service she received her 2 year degree from Hillsborough Community College in Plant City. 

Her love for books and reading led her into a career at the Hillsborough County School Board in Library Processing. Later, Bonnie began working for the Publix Bakery Plant. She held several positions within the Publix stores and loved her job, as she was able to interact with many people throughout her day. Bonnie never met a stranger and treated everyone with kindness and grace. 

Bonnie enjoyed many things in her 85 years, most of all she loved people. Generous, caring, kind, humble, forgiving and resilient are a few words used to describe her. She always thought of others and cared deeply about you and your needs. Bonnie’s love for others came from an overflow of Gods love for her. She trusted Jesus for her salvation at a young age and loved the song “Jesus Loves Me.” These simple truths resonated with Bonnie. “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong; they are weak, but he is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me!” Bonnie belonged to Jesus and trusted Him for everything she had. She loved Jesus and loved others so well.

Her passing has left us with great sadness and grief. But just like Bonnie trusted Jesus for everything she had, we too can trust Jesus and take Him at His word- “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” We grieve her passing but grieve with an eternal hope in Jesus and what He did for us. This is not our home, we are merely passing through making an impact on others for Jesus and His glory. Love Jesus and love others!

Proverbs 22:1

A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold. 

Funeral service will be held at Lakeland Bible Church on Lunn and Parker Rd. This Friday, December 1 at 11:00am.

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