Obituary: Sgt. Romeo Bernard Bonnette, 101, Bay Pines, Fla.
Romeo Bernard Bonnette
By Susie Phillips
Romeo Bonnette, 101, passed away on Jan. 23, 2026 and will be laid to rest at Bay Pines National Memorial Cemetery in Bay Pines, Fl.
He was born to Kirby Bonnette and Neta Saucier of Plaucheville, La. on Oct. 25, 1924.
He is survived by his loving wife, Irene Tedder-Eighmey Bonnette and his daughter, Pamela Hamilton of Texas. Grandchildren, great-grandchildren, loving friends and Sherry Lawson, ((considered as a daughter).
Sgt. Romeo B. Bonnette of Co C 123rd Inf, served as a combat Infantryman in New Guinea Luzon and occupation duty in Japan at end of war, 1945-46. Honored with Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars for heroic and meritorious achievement – Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 1 Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal – World War II Victory Medal. He also served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Campaign.
Romeo spent an earlier chapter of his life living in Dallesport, Wash. in the Columbia River Gorge. He was a Fuller Brush representative for many years and also maintained a newspaper driving route, making deliveries for The Dalles Chronicle.
He and his ( then) wife Vivian ( Rinke, deceased) were well known for hosting Sunday dinner meals, welcoming church members, newcomers and strangers into their home. Together, they enjoyed delicious home-cooked meals that always included Vivian’s homemade biscuits.
They were active members of the local Covenant Christian church in The Dalles. Hosting Bible studies and singles groups, they were always available for advice, wisdom and encouragement. They often opened their doors for boarders in their home. Over the years, the Bonnette’s were an adopted grandpa and grandma to many of their dear friends and their children.
A few of Romeo’s favorite things were relaxing with a chicory coffee, promoting it to anyone and everyone willing to try a cup. He enjoyed being behind the wheel of his white Mercury Cougar, driving through the Gorge in his leisure time. Photography was a life-long love, and he could be found in his darkroom developing film, processing photos, and refining his skills. Trips to New Orleans to attend the family friendly Mardi Gras celebrations were always looked forward to.
Though he moved away many years ago to take up residence in Florida, he was exceptional in keeping up with friends via phone calls, letters and Christmas cards. As God’s good plans would have it, Romeo found love again and married his sweetheart Irene. They resided in Florida at the time of his passing. He was a soft-spoken man, an encourager by nature, and served the Lord in his long lifetime. There is great comfort in knowing that he is now in his Savior’s arms. He is fondly remembered and will be greatly missed.
