On May 16th 1927 a star fell from heaven. Now, this was no ordinary star because its' purpose was to radiate light illuminating every life it touched. That star was Joseph Bonslater Jr.
Joseph (Poppa) was the 3rd of seven children born to Joseph Sr. and Esdra Bonslater. Ms. Esdra later remarried and had two other children, another ten siblings were added to the family through the union of Joseph Sr. and Ethel Bonslater.
He was born in Memphis Tennessee, but raised in Pickens Mississippi. He enlisted in the Navy very young and after finishing his tour of duty at the age of 21 he moved to San Diego, California where he began his life's journey.
Prior to Marrying his love Larnee Hurwitz "Clydesdale" as he affectionately called her, he fathered Yvonne, Ronald, Gary, Willie, Janet, and Joey and was a dutiful parent to them all. Upon marrying Larnee a set of twins Dominique and Nicole were added to their blended family.
Being a hard worker all his life he spent many proud years at North Island Naval Air Station San Diego as a crane operator until he retired in 1981.
Poppa's heart was golden. He was a giver. He was very stylish always impeccably dressed. He had "swagger" before many of us were familiar with the word. He was sharp and he was funny! We all remember his little dance steps especially when he was happy.
Along with his easy manner he was quick to forgive and always had words of encouragement for those he cared about.
Driving was one of his passions and he enjoyed large beautiful cars. Nothing made him happier than taking to the open highway cross country in one of his many automobiles with his dear wife Larnee. Once in Poppa's company you couldn't forget him. Knowing him was loving him.
As a dutiful member of the Masonic Fraternity for many years he was elevated to Grand Stature which included his commitment as Worthy Patron to the Order of the Eastern Star.
He accepted Christ at an early age and remained faithful all of his life.
Joseph Bonslater was called home on September the 3rd 2018. He was preceded in death by parents Joseph Sr. and Esdra Bonslater.
Brothers: Eddie, JB, Bill, Robert, Herman, William (Bully) Sherman, Cordell, and his sister Maxine.
Wives: Thursie Reed, Hattie Merle Booker
Beloved mother in law Claire Moore.
Brother in Law: Randy Hurwitz ( Julie) Li'l Nicky, Leevon, Cody and Derek
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 43 years Larnee Bonslater.
Daughters: Yvonne Bonslater, Janet Bonslater and Nicole White (Christopher)
Sons: Gary Bonslater (Pamela), Ronald Bonslater (Sandra), Willie Bonslater, Dominique Moore (Erin), and Joey Ayers
Sisters: Royal Redman, Lilly Bonslater, Elaine (Sweet), Jean, Ethel Rene, and Louise
Brothers: Joe Willie Jr and Charles Bonslater
Grandchildren: Della Booker, Patricia Kaloko (Patrick). Alisha Bonslater, Christopher Bonslater (Kim Kaufman), Chantal McDonald, and Chantiqua McDonald
Ronald Bonslater, Shanequa Monique Bonslater, Renee Bonslater, Christian, Lauren, and Donovan White
Caleb, Savannah, Mikaylah and Kaiyah Moore
Great Grandchildren: Monae Wooden, Malachi Booker and Jacob and Peyton Kaloko
Beloved brother and sister in law: Rence and Jeniffer Moore
Treasured Niece: Renicia Witherspoon (Nuru)
Adopted Sons and Daughter: Jonathan Mylra, Kenneth and Patricia Brown
A host of Family and Friends every where.
A visitation will occur Wednesday, September 19, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Funeraria Del Angel, 753 Broadway, Chula Vista, California 91910. His funeral service will follow from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
at Funeraria Del Angel Chula Vista, Serenity Chapel.
Eternal resting place for Joseph will be held Wednesday, September 19, 2018 at 1;30 pm at Greenwood Memorial Park & Mortuary, 4300 Imperial Avenue, San Diego, California 92113. Military Honors under auspices of the United States Navy will be presented.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.humphreymortuary.com for the BONSLATER family.
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