It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bonnie Kay (Rayson) Abbott on May 18, 2026, at the age of 82. Born in Altoona, Pennsylvania on April 07, 1944. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Bonnie is survived by her children Tom Barney, Suzie Barney (Georgia Schneider), Amber (Joe) Granado, and Autumn (Fredde) Knight, her grandchildren Bianca Palomarez (Arturo), Blanca Flores Munoz (Dreamer), Mercy (Isacc) and Jojo Granado, Jocelyn Borgarding, Easton and Mason Knight, great-grandchildren Marley, Izekiel, Eli, Alessandra, and Bailey, and her sister Mickie (Bob) Vollmer. Bonnie is preceded by her parents Clayton and Eva Rayson, and her husband Mark Abbott of 45 years.

To know Bonnie was to feel the warmth of a perfect summer day. She lived life with a luminous energy, welcoming everyone with open arms and a beaming smile. Her boundless positivity was a constant source of comfort, and she made it her mission to leave every person happier than she found them. Bonnie was a true beacon of light. She possessed a rare, sunshine personality that lit up every room she entered. Her radiant smile and infectious laughter were daily gifts to her family and friends. She chose optimism at every turn, bringing warmth, comfort, and an unmistakable joy to everyone who crossed her path. It is no wonder her nickname by so many was “Sunshine.”

Bonnie worked for Flowing Wells School District for many years as a teachers aid at Walter Douglas Elementary and drove school bus for the school district. She then took a job working at the Sahuaro Girl Scout Council (now named Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona). She worked for the Girl Scout council for more than 25 years, before retiring. Her commitment to the Girl Scouts went far beyond mere involvement; she dedicated more than 70 years of service, loyalty, and deep friendship to the organization. Her journey began as a young Girl Scout and grew into a lifelong devotion, culminating in her proud status as a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts of America. Bonnie didn't just lead Girl Scouts; she ignited a spark in young girls, helping them uncover their truest, most confident selves through friendship, fun, and fearless exploration—building skills, and confidence. She served as several different positions within the Girl Scout organization, but her favorite position was as an event coordinator. She helped plan amazing council wide programs for Daisy through Senior levels as well as adults. From Science Day, to Around the World events, to Camping Trips, and so much more there was always something new to learn from Bonnie. She poured her heart into guiding young Girl Scouts on the beautiful journey of self-discovery.

Bonnie had a deep love for the outdoors and found joy in camping and hiking. She cherished her time on Mount Lemmon, where the quiet lookout of Rose Canyon and the glow of Tucson’s city lights brought her comfort. Nothing made her happier than seeing her grandkids and great‑grandkids doing what they loved—ice hockey, softball, baseball, hunting, and Folklorico dancing. She shared countless laughs over card and board games with her grandson Mason, where neither one ever backed down from a good‑natured challenge. She cherished these moments. Her event‑planning spirit never faded; she joyfully teamed up with her daughter to help plan many school events over the years for her grandson’s school.

Bonnie’s presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit endures in the hearts of all she touched. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Bonnie’s memory by supporting the renewal of our forests through the planting of a tree in her name, or by contributing to the Girl Scouts to help girls attend camp and participate in meaningful programs.