BONITA MAE CANNEDY Obituary in Indianapolis at Payne Funeral Home

Obituary For BONITA MAE CANNEDY

Mrs. Bonita Mae Cannedy was born on August 6, 1935, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her parents, Mr. Lee H. West and Mrs. Ruby M. West, instilled the values of family togetherness, hard work, and untiring service in her at an early age. While learning these life lessons, Bonita enjoyed spending time with her older brother Charles. Charlie, as he was affectionately called, lovingly doted on his little sister! The two siblings became very close to each other. Charlie was very protectice of Bonita and she in turn was protective of him. There are family stories that have been shared of how Bonita defended her brother’s honor against older boys who attempted to bully him. They supported one another in the loss of their parents and in the joys of parenthood. Their love for one another continued well into their later years. Bonita attended IPS School No.23, IPS School No.17, and Crispus Attucks High School. She excelled in her educational endeavors. Bonita later went into a nurse training program at Indiana University Hospital, where she served in many capacities before retiring after 40 years of service in 1989. While at Indiana University Hospital, she began working with polio patients. She longed to do more and became an ophthalmology scrub nurse. From there, Bonita decided to take advantage of an opportunity and become a renal dialysis nurse. It was while in the dialysis unit that the previous teaching from her parents came to the forefront. Bonita wanted to not only help her patients medically, but wanted to help them mentally by forming a bond. She loved working with them and enjoyed being a part of their life. She was affectionately called “Mama Bonnie.” During her long-standing career in nursing, Bonita was bestowed the honor of being named in “Who’s Who in Nursing,” had a book written by Dr. Eugene Halveson dedicated to her, and has been awarded many certificates and plaques for her accomplishments. In addition to serving others, Bonita also served the Lord. She was raised in a Christian household and was baptized at 17th St. Baptist Church, under the late Walter M. Edwards. 17th St. Baptist Church later became Christ Missionary Baptist Church. Bonita served as an usher and faithfully sang in the choir. In her later years, Bonita united with Olivet Missionary Baptist Church, under the direction of Dr. Wayne L. Moore. While at Olivet, Bonita showed love to others from the pew with words of encouragement and a warm smile. She loved the fellowship, the preaching and the singing. Most of all, she loved the attention that Pastor Moore gave to each one of his seasoned members. Bonita faithfully attended Olivet until her health failed her. Her kindness extended to those in her neighborhood as well. Bonita often cared for youth who would stop by to play, for neighbors who needed a listening ear, or for stray animals who looked hungry. Bonita spoke and lived a life of service! Although she is not with us in truth, her spirit of giving will forever remain within the hearts of her family. Bonita loved her family. She had a passion for life! Holidays were very special to her. It was during these times that she would gather her family together to celebrate. She was often the hostess and would serve her “famous chili.” Bonita married the love of her life, Mr. Homer G. Cannedy, in 1970. They shared many wonderful years together. Homer was called to his heavenly home in 1989 and prepared the place in which he was recently able to welcome his beloved. He stood at the Heavenly Gate and welcomed Bonita on Saturday, June 12, 2021. There is no more pain or suffering for Bonita. She is at peace with her mother, her father, her husband, and her friends. Bonita was preceded in death by her son, Mr. Dwayne Dodson, Sr. She is survived by: her daughters, Mrs. Deborah R. Rose (Louis) and Ms. Sharon L. Dodson; her loving brother, Charles West; three nieces, Donna Southers, Patricia West, and Nicole Jordan; two nephews, Ronald West and Gary West (Gloria); six grandchildren, Delbert White, Jr., DeMeita Vincent (Jonathan), Lakeisha Britt (Shawn Sr.), Dwayne Dodson, Jr. (Victoria), Kelcey Dodson, and Sabrena Tichenor (Terrell); sixteen great-grandchildren; and a host of friends and family.

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