James "Pap" Lesley Bonner

James “Pap” Lesley Bonner passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026. A long time & proud resident of McDonald TN community. Pap or JJ as he was well known was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Esther Lee Wilson Bonner and William R. Bonner, SR; his parents, Eldric (Margaret) Bonner and Ruby Green (Don) Higdon; uncle, Bobby Bonner; cousin Ricky Bonner,  aunt, Marian Curtis; brother, Jimmy Chase; mother in law, Louise Raines Arndts and brother in law, Larry Raines.

He retired from the Iron Workers Union local 704. He knew how to have a good time, but more importantly, he loved his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was always willing to help pick up and drive his loved ones to sporting or academic events.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Violet Bonner, his children, Lisa Maddux (Stephen), Mark Tallent (Diann), Todd Bonner (Paula) and Danny Bonner; 6 grandchildren, Stephanie (Bryan) Sams, Caleb Tallent, Hailey Bonner, Jay Bonner, Nathaniel Bonner, Andrew Bonner; 3 great grandchildren, Jaxon Sams, Brylee Sams and Autumn Bonner; his sisters, Brenda Smith, Maya Gorman and Cathy Greer; brother in law, Tommy Raines. His breakfast buddies at McDonald Grocery and the McDonald Outreach/Ruritan Club. He is loved and will be missed by his family and friends. The family would like to send a special thank you to Pastor Gilbert, who had a wonderful discussion with him hours before he passed. The family will receive friends Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 4 to 8 PM at Poole Funeral Home. The funeral will be held Thursday at 2:00 PM with Pastor Steve Gilbert officiating in the chapel at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Lee Cemetery. Following the graveside the family will receive friends at the Heritage Fellowship Church.