Mrs. Bonnie Kate South, age 87, Jonesborough, passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Brookdale Senior Living.
Mrs. South was born on June 19, 1939, in Washington County, Tennessee, to the late George H. & Ethel Whaley Arrowood. She was preceded in death by her son, Barton South, sister, Emma Jean Arrowood and brother, J.H. Arrowood.
She was a lifelong member of Bethel Church of Christ. She was a Sunday School Teacher as well as Bible School Director and Teacher.
Mrs. South was Valedictorian of the Lamar High School Class of 1957. She took classes at East Tennessee State College to further her education. She worked for McClellan’s Department Store, Steinway Clothing Company, Kings Department Store, Texas Instruments and Lamar Cafeteria. She was also a beloved daycare provider for countless children in the community.
She was President of the Home Extension Club. She was an avid and skilled hand quilter and enjoyed gardening. She enjoyed selling quilts and various crafts at festivals in the surrounding area with her sister. She won several ribbons at the fair. She was a wonderful cook and made the best biscuits and gravy. She also loved to travel.
Survivors include her husband of over 68 years, Bob South, Jonesborough; sons and daughters-in-law, Bryan and Twyla South, Watauga; and Barry and Christy South, Alaska; daughter, Beverly Proudlove, Blountville; eight grandchildren, Racheal Dugger (Daniel), Cameron South (Amie), Larkin South, Caleb South, Thomas South, Ellie South, Phoebe Proudlove and Tristan Proudlove; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Anna Lee Kilby and Brenda Bacon; and several nephews and nieces.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 PM, Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Bethel Church of Christ with Minister Lamar Garrison officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00-3:00 PM Wednesday prior to the service. Graveside services will follow at Bethesda Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be selected from family & friends.
Condolences may be sent to the South family online at www.dillow-taylor.com
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN 423-753-3821
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. Though I have never personally met this fine lady I know she was a Jewel as she has left a wonderful testimony and loving family that I know will miss her so. I pray that you are blessed with extra grace and hope in knowing you will see her again one day! God Bless and Keep you all in his favor!
10/09/2026
Judy Briggs
We’re so sorry to hear about the passing of Bonnie, our thoughts and Prayers are with all her Family.
Our Deepest Sympathies, Judy Briggs and Tommie Douglas
10/09/2026
Gail Emory
Such a beautiful person. I remember her coming into the kitchen at Aunt Ethel’s so easy and matter of fact about everything.
10/09/2026
JENNY KEPLINGER
I remember all the fun trips we took together when our children were younger. I also remember what fun we had just fellowship together. Bonnie was a great lady and friend. She will be missed. Prayers for the family
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