Boneska A Clarke

Boneska “Bonnie” Clarke was born on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, on May 15, 1962, to Rosetta Caffie and Roy Caffie. From the very beginning, her life was built on a foundation of faith and love—two guiding forces that shaped everything she did and everyone she touched.

Bonnie accepted Christ into her heart at an early age and was baptized, beginning a lifelong walk with God that never wavered. Her faith wasn’t just something she practiced; it was the core of who she was. Whether through her words, her work, or her warm embrace, she let God’s love shine through her. She was a faithful and devoted member of Lighthouse Church of All Nations, under the leadership of Bishop Dan Willis, where her praise and presence were a blessing to all who knew her.

Bonnie’s educational journey began at St. Charles Lwanga Catholic School and continued through Tilden High School. Following her natural gift for creativity and design, she pursued her passion at the International Academy of Merchandising and Design, later continuing her studies at South Suburban College.

Professionally, Bonnie was known for her excellence, compassion, and integrity. She worked at Cintas and later served the Maggie Daley Park District. No matter the task, she approached it with heart and purpose, uplifting others with her kindness and steady spirit.

Her creativity was one of her most beautiful gifts. Bonnie could turn the simplest materials into something extraordinary—sewing, quilting, making t-shirts, designing greeting cards, crafting jewelry, or decorating a space until it radiated joy. Each piece she made carried her signature touch: patience, beauty, and love.

Those who knew her best will remember her for her humility, warmth, and unwavering faith. She was a peacekeeper, a gentle encourager, and a quiet source of strength for her family and friends. Among her siblings, she was the glue that held everyone together—always reminding them of what truly mattered: faith, forgiveness, and family.

Bonnie shared her life with two beloved husbands. She was first united in marriage to Luis Gonzalez Sr. (deceased), and later found love again with Edward “Ed” Clarke, whom she married on September 7, 2019. Their union was one of deep affection, devotion, and partnership, lasting until the day of her passing.

Above all else, Bonnie was a devoted mother. Her children—Jeremy Caffie, Luis Gonzalez Jr., and Lee Gonzalez—were her pride and joy, her heart’s purpose, and her greatest blessing. Everything she did was rooted in love for them and faith in God’s plan for their lives.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband; her loving children; her siblings Samoria, Camelitta, Peeylair, Eric, Herfner, Angeyleah, Nekeisha, Tamiko, the memory of Roy Jr. (deceased); and a host of other siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends—including Dana, Shirley, and Sandra—who will continue to feel her presence in their lives.

Bonnie’s light, laughter, and love will forever echo in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Her faith carried her through every trial, her love uplifted everyone she met, and her legacy of kindness will continue to inspire generations.

Though her earthly journey has ended, we take comfort knowing that she is resting in the arms of her Savior, reunited with loved ones who went before her. Bonnie has earned her heavenly crown, and her spirit lives on—in every act of love, every prayer, and every life she touched.