Bonnie Burtron

Bonnie Burtron, 79, of Robinson, IL, passed away on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, IN. She was born on May 11, 1944, in Noble, IL, one of seven children born to Theodore Roosevelt Littlejohn & Cora (Melton) Littlejohn. Growing up in Hutsonville and Palestine, Bonnie displayed extraordinary dedication and selflessness in her early years, quitting school to support her large family. This commitment to care for those around her became a defining characteristic throughout her life.

She married James Allen Burtron, Sr., on September 23, 1960, and would spend the following years tending to their house and all who called it "home". Later, she found employment at Ettelbrick Shoe Factory, Crawford Electronics, and, most notably, Victor Dana, where she served faithfully for nearly 30 years. Bonnie was, by every measure, a woman of tenacity and dedication. A testament to her toughness was an incident where she broke two fingers at work but pushed through the pain despite being advised to seek medical attention. Her passion for work was unwavering, reflecting her strong character and indomitable spirit.

Though her work ethic was second to none, she also knew how to enjoy herself, and her varied interests spanned a wide range of activities. For example, Bonnie adored dancing with her husband Jim in her younger years, a testament to the bond they shared. As the years went by, they spent more and more of their weekends camping and fishing, creating a myriad of joyous memories alongside their family. As she aged, she became an avid crocheter and embroiderer and most recently developed a passion for dot-coloring. Regardless of the season of her life, Bonnie always enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether basking in the warmth of sunny days or watching the various birds that made their way to the many bird feeders around her home. She was particularly fond of cardinals and hummingbirds, symbols of vibrancy and resilience that paralleled her own personality. Known for her practicality, Bonnie was neither wasteful nor extravagant. Yet, she was known for her generosity, regularly contributing to veteran organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

In the twilight of her life, Bonnie attended the South Side Christian Church in Robinson, though she embodied the Christian virtue of love by way of the selfless care she gave others throughout her 79 years. Her family, particularly her grandchildren, were the beneficiaries of this dear woman's love. Bonnie Burtron's life was a testament to the power of love, the dignity of hard work, and the beauty of selflessness. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide all those she has left behind.

She is survived by her children, Jesse Burtron (Robinson, IL), James Burtron (Robinson, IL), and Margaret McCord (Clinton, MO); by her grandchildren, Jesse, Amanda, Travis, Tiffany, Tommy, and Tony; by 17 great-grandchildren; by her sister, Vivian Draper (Robinson, IL); as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of over 54 years, Jim; her parents, Theodore & Cora; her brothers, Thomas Littlejohn, James Littlejohn, and Robert Littlejohn, Sr.; and by her sisters, Cora Berry and Margaret Littlejohn.

A time of visitation will be held from 12:00-1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 30th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, with Pastor Chris DeWitt officiating. Burial will be in the Hardinville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to her church family at "South Side Christian Church", with envelopes available at the funeral home.