Bonnie C. Burrell

Bonnie C. Burrell, age 83, of Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, passed away Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Saint Joseph Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky.

Born June 24, 1943, in Syracuse, New York, Bonnie was a daughter of the late Beverly Eugene Burrell and Alice Margaret Soderlund Burrell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved son, Kevin Ethan Burrell, on October 25, 2019.

Bonnie is survived by her sister, Virginia B. Libby and husband Oliver of Damariscotta, Maine; six beloved nieces and nephews and their families, Eric P. Garringer (Hayley), John Nichols (Loretta), Elise Bridge (Jim), Owen E. Libby, Kristina M. Libby (Tim), and Anna I. Pipher (Daryl); two foster children whom she loved dearly, Jason E. Thornsberry and Melisa Waddell; as well as many dear friends, including Jenny and Steve McKinney and Delecia Holder.

Bonnie came by train from Connecticut to Morehead in 1962 accompanied by her mother Alice and little sister Ginny. She enrolled at Morehead State University as a new student and eventually earned a master’s degree in adult and higher education. Bonnie and her former husband, Dr. Roland Burns, briefly moved to Mississippi. After returning to Morehead, Bonnie worked at Morehead State University in several capacities. Her most fulfilling and rewarding position was the adult education director where she served until her retirement. She became a foster parent and opened her heart and home to several children through the years. Bonnie, a strong advocate for education for all ages and stages, was instrumental in starting the Rowan County Storybook Christmas Project. She was also an advocate for all animals, especially dogs. She was devoted to getting as many adopted as possible—taking pictures, advertising in the newspaper, making donations, and giving of her time and energy.

Bonnie will be remembered for the love and kindness she shared with her family, foster children, and many friends. She leaves behind cherished memories that will continue to live in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351.

Graveside services will be conducted at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, at New Alfrey Cemetery with family and friends officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to STAR (Saving the Animals of Rowan), P.O. Box 454, Morehead, KY 40351.

View or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com