Bonita (Bonnie) Eyleen Harman Horsey lived life with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a good dose of adventurous spirit. Though she has left this world, her passion for languages, travel, food, and tiny British sports cars lives on in the stories of those who knew her.
Born in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania on September 21, 1959, Bonnie was the beloved daughter of the late Dorothy A. Harman and Willis N. Harman of York, PA. She is survived by her loving husband and fellow explorer, Jack M. Horsey of Chambersburg, PA, and her stepdaughter, Lisa A. Horsey of St. Louis, MO. Bonnie was preceded in death by her brother, Willis Dwayne (Bill) Harman of Georgetown, TX and stepson, John Horsey of Deland, FL.
Bonnie’s early years were spent roaming the mountains and lakes of central Pennsylvania, fueling a lifelong curiosity about the world beyond. A 1977 graduate of CASHS, she discovered a love for French language and culture that led her to West Chester University and a study abroad program at the University of Montpellier, France—a place that stole her heart (and possibly encouraged a lifelong appreciation for French wine). She graduated in 1981 with a B.S. in French and later earned an M.A. in the language from Millersville University.
For 32 years, Bonnie shared her love of languages with the students of Waynesboro Area School District, immersing them in cultures beyond the classroom walls. She delighted in leading trips to Europe, Mexico, and Costa Rica, believing that real learning happened when you stepped off a plane and into a new adventure. She also cherished the friendships she built with fellow educators, whom she considered family.
In 2017, Bonnie and Jack moved to Menno Haven in Chambersburg, PA, where they found an incredible community and a wealth of new friendships. Whether sharing meals, swapping stories, engaging in lively ping pong matches, or exploring life’s latest adventures, Bonnie thrived in the company of those around her, embracing the camaraderie that made Menno Haven feel like home.
Bonnie saw food as a universal love language and proved this with every perfectly baked treat and fearlessly attempted recipe. No dish was too complex, no ingredient too intimidating. If it brought people together, she was all in. Her culinary passions were matched by her love of travel, which she shared with Jack on unforgettable trips through Prince Edward Island, the eastern provinces of Canada, and their many U.S. road trips.
Somewhere along the way, Bonnie found herself fully immersed in Jack’s world of little British sports cars. Together, they took countless scenic drives, joined fellow enthusiasts, and even competed in shows and concours—because why not make an adventure out of everything?
Animals held a special place in Bonnie’s heart, and she proudly championed local rescues that helped bring beloved cats and dogs into her home. Her love for them was unwavering, and they were spoiled accordingly.
In lieu of flowers, Bonnie would surely appreciate a donation to the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter, 5051 Letterkenny Road West, Chambersburg, PA 17201 or Antietam Humane Society, 8513 Lyons Road, Waynesboro, PA 17268—because what better way to honor her than to help a furry friend in need?
The family will receive friends from 6:00 P.M. until 7:30 P.M., Friday evening, June 13, 2025, in Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home, 50 S. Broad St., Waynesboro.
A celebration of life will be planned at Menno Haven at a later date.
Burial will be private.
