Bonnie Mclaud

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Bonnie (Marsh) McLaud, formerly of Newark Valley, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2024, at Mercy House in Endicott, NY. Born on September 11, 1949, in Johnson City, NY, Bonnie's life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and friendship.

Bonnie was a graduate of Newark Valley High School, class of 1967. Her ambition and work ethic were evident early on when she began her career at NYSEG immediately following graduation. Bonnie dedicated nearly 48 years to the company, retiring as a respected Real Estate and Right-of-Way Agent. Her commitment to her work was paralleled only by her devotion to her family and community.

She is survived by her two daughters, Alana (Brian) Ackely of Endicott, NY, and Brenna (Daniel) McLaud-Birchard of Vancouver, British Columbia, who were her pride and joy. Bonnie's love for her family extended to her granddaughters, Léa and Olivia, who were the apples of her eye, and her beloved granddogs, Winston, Clementine, Sofia, and Zoe, who brought her immense joy. Alana’s and Brenna’s dad Robert McLaud also survived.

Bonnie's life was enriched by her lifelong friendship with Susan and the late Richard Bierl, their children Amanda and Andrew, and her sisters-in-law, Ann Marsh, Sara Marsh, and Maryann Featherbay-Settle. Her nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of friends will also feel the absence of her warm and caring spirit.

She was predeceased by her parents Harold and Lillian (Zimmer) Marsh and her brothers: Robert “Bob” Marsh, Jerry Marsh, Richard Settle, and Donald Marsh.

Her community service through the Red Cross, particularly her role in running the "Sound the Alarm" program, showcased Bonnie's selfless nature. She was a faithful member of the Nanticoke Baptist Church, where she nurtured her spiritual life and formed lasting bonds with her church family.

Bonnie's zest for life shone through in her love of travel, especially the cherished trips to Jamaica with her daughters. She reveled in the accomplishments of Brenna's dance studio students and never missed an opportunity to support them. “Bama” as she was affectionately known, never missed an opportunity to cheer on her grandchildren, from music adventures with Léa to gymnastics and diving events with Olivia, the sound of grandma’s applause was always the loudest. Daniel's culinary creations were among her favorite indulgences.

As a proud alumna, Bonnie looked forward to the Newark Valley Annual Alumni Concert, where she served on the concert committee. She enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and celebrate the enduring spirit of her alma mater. Her presence at these events will be deeply missed.

Those who knew Bonnie would describe her as loving, generous, and faith-filled with a smile that could light up a room. Her unwavering support and constant readiness to help others were hallmarks of her character. As Clara Barton once said “I ask neither pay nor praise… simply your excellency to go and do with my might whatever my hands can find to do.” Bonnie lived by this sentiment, touching the hearts of all she encountered.

Bonnie's legacy is one of love and service, a life richly lived and generously shared. She leaves behind a family who adores her, friends who admire her, and a community that is better because of her. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her, and her memory will be cherished forever.

We will gather on Friday, March 22nd from 4 – 7 pm at the MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig St., Newark Valley to remember and share stories of Bonnie’s life. A celebration of her life and funeral service will be held at her church, Nanticoke Baptist Church on Saturday, March 23 at 11 am. A luncheon and period of fellowship will follow the service. Bonnie will be laid to rest next to her parents in Hope Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guest book at www.macphersonfh.com. Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the “Sound the Alarm Program” at the American Red Cross, 620 E. Main St., Endicott, NY 13760 in loving memory of Bonnie Marsh McLaud.