Bonnie Kay Switzner

Bonnie Kay Switzner, 82, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM, leaving behind a legacy of "labors of love" and a family that was the absolute center of her world.
Born on June 25, 1943, in Coffeyville, Kansas, to Loyd and Marguerite Stafford, Bonnie grew up alongside her sister, Ermaloy Langworthy. Together, they formed the foundation of the spunky, fun, and deeply caring spirit Bonnie carried throughout her life. In her early years, Bonnie married Dale Handshumaker, and together they raised three children who became her pride and joy. Later in life, Bonnie found a new rhythm on the dance floor where she met her husband, Ben Switzner. Their shared love for old country classics, especially the music of Johnny Cash and Conway Twitty, became the soundtrack of their years together.
Bonnie was a dedicated and proud employee of Laufen Ceramics for many years. She found deep fulfillment in the craftsmanship of her work and in the tangible legacy of what they built together. Outside of work, Bonnie was an artist of everyday. She was a talented quilter and embroiderer, and she lived for "the hunt" of a good bargain while thrifting. Whether she was showing off a garage sale find or wearing something bright and bold, she brought a unique color to every room she entered.
Bonnie was famously a "trooper" when it came to family traditions, especially the annual camping trips to the lake. She split her time between Coffeyville, Skiatook, and Texas to ensure she never missed a moment with her children and grandchildren. She loved being on the water, spending entire weekends hopping from boat to boat as her three children navigated their own crafts.
Her family will never forget her feisty, protective spirit. During one memorable storm at the campsite, Bonnie didn't hesitate; she pulled every grandchild out of their tents and piled them into her van, rushing them to the camp shelter for safety. Whether navigating a literal storm or preparing a holiday feast, she ensured her "crew" was always safe and well-fed.
Bonnie was reunited in heaven with her parents, Loyd and Marguerite Stafford, and her sister, Ermaloy Langworthy.
She is survived by husband Ben Switzner, her children: daughter Debra Shelly and husband Johnny; son Randy Handshumaker and wife Ladonna; and Son Sean Handshumaker and wife Angela.
Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Michael, Derek (Hannah), Michaela (Trey), Amber, Magan, and Shyann (Micheal); and her many beloved great-grandchildren who will carry her feisty spirit forward.
Bonnie will be remembered every time a bargain is found at a garage sale and every time the clouds gather over the lake, a reminder that she is still watching over us, ready to usher her family to safety.