Bonnie Quesenberry Erickson, of Christiansburg, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2026. She was born June 5, 1955, in Christiansburg.
She was preceded in death by her father and mother; Draper Viller Quesenberry and Joyce Boyd Quesenberry; brothers Clay and Jesse, and daughter Amanda Lynn (Pooh) Toby; former soulmate, husband and caregiver; Andrew (Andy) Erickson; her childhood sweetheart, Wayne Akers, who after a 43 year lapse, reconnected with her four years before his passing.
She is survived by her daughter, Venetia (Piglet) DiRico, Stephanie Lane and Alicia Cox; grandchildren Daniel James (DJ) Wood, Samantha, Alexis (Boogie) Rossie, Amber (Dixie Pixie) Wood, Temperance Sophia (Spit Fire) Wood, Christopher Hankins and Nick Rossie; and great grandchildren Skyler Wood and Anysha Hankins, all of South Carolina; step-grandchildren Seara and Marie; step-mother; Margaret Chrisley Quesenberry; and step-sisters Angel and Kim.
The family wishes to thank Papa Andy for taking care of Bonnie as her health and eyesight diminished. With his love and care Bonnie was able to stay in her home.
Bonnie was born in Christiansburg and lived in San Diego and Myrtle Beach for a period of time; however, she always wanted to come home to the Appalachian Mountains that she loved so dearly. Bonnie graduated from Auburn High School in the class of 1975. She studied in the Adult Degree Program at Radford University.
Bonnie retired from Radford University with 27 years of service, she was a writer in the Office of University Relations; she had previously worked in the Radford University Printing Department, as well as Commonwealth Press in Radford, The News Messenger and the Roanoke Times.
Bonnie’s dream and prayer since the third grade was that she would one day have a career in writing and God answered that prayer.
Bonnie was a charter member of the inaugural Radford Highlanders Festival. She won several awards for her creative themed festival press packets. For seven years she was the “official/unofficial” clown of the festival, appearing as “Darlin’ MacFarlane.”
Bonnie loved NASCAR racing, wrestling, Dr. Pepper and 60’s music.
Bonnie wanted to be remembered most for her love of God, and her church Harbor of Hope. Bonnie served as Ministry Director of the young at heart senior citizens group, and enjoyed volunteering for the Blessing Bucket, Lazarus shelf library and the welcoming ministries.
Bonnie will be remembered for her personality and candor. She could brighten any room with laughter, and silence the same room with her famous words, “I just don’t understand.” Bonnie was a delight and will be sorely missed by all who knew her.
Bonnie befriended Carolyn and Neal Turner many years ago. Bonnie and Neal compiled many of their poems and writings into a small book and sold them for The Missionary Outreach at Christiansburg Pentecostal Church Many years ago.
During the past several years she remained in touch and kept updating them on her health. Recently when her eyesight began to fail, she called and asked if they would assist her in her final requests. The conversation was well over an hour long and filled with laughter as if Bonnie was getting ready for another festival. She knew as difficult as it will be to say goodbye, the joy of no more health problems and spending eternity with God in a place called heaven was worth all the faith she has shown over the many years of failing health.
Flowers are appreciated but for those wishing to make a monetary donation in Bonnie’s memory are asked to consider the Riner Fire Department or the Christiansburg Rescue Squad or to Harbor of Hope, Blessing Bucket Fund.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 11 a.m. at New Hope Church of God with Pastors Craig Reed and Neal Turner officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Cemetery, Christiansburg. The family will receive friends from prior to the service from 10 a.m. until service time at the church.
