Ernest Wayne Bonner, 82, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away on February 20, 2025. Born in Lawrence County, Tennessee, on December 14, 1942, to Willie Lake and Flora Bass Bonner, Wayne was one of 11 children. He graduated from Lawrence County High School in 1960 and later attended the University of Tennessee at Martin before joining the National Guard.
Wayne was deeply connected to his rural roots, finding joy in farming and raising cattle, passions he pursued throughout his life. He was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church, serving on the board of trustees and in various other roles. Wayne was a pillar of the community, leaving a lasting impact through his acts of kindness and charitable contributions. He was a builder and developer, leading Bonner Development and owning Bonner Land & Cattle. In 1989, he was honored as the builder of the year by the Home Builders Association of Alabama.
Throughout his life, Wayne held numerous prominent roles, including serving on the Board of Control of the Von Braun Center (VBC) and later as Chairman. He also served on the board of ServisFirst Bank, the board of trustees of Randolph School, and as an advisor of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild. Wayne was deeply involved in various associations, including the Madison County Cattlemen’s Association, the Home Builders Association of Alabama, the Huntsville/Madison County Builder’s Association, and the Alabama Angus Association.
Wayne is survived by his loving wife, Charlene (Charlie), and daughter, Caroline, as well as sisters Ruth Nix and Rebecca Sharp. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Grant, William, Vernon “Klyce”, Allison “Loye”, Floyd Thomas, and Jerry Bonner, and sisters Barbara and Zella.
The Bonner family extends their gratitude to friends and the community for their love and support. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 12:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church of Huntsville, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 pm in the Sanctuary. A private burial will take place in Maple Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Huntsville Museum of Art (300 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801), or a charity of your choice.