Bonnie Greer

Bonnie Greer, 78, of Athens, Georgia, passed away on March 5, 2025. Born on September 13, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Terry and Betty Kleckner. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister Carol Fritch.

As a loving wife and mother, Bonnie is survived by her husband, John Greer; son: Chris Greer (Valerie), daughter Tiffany Hengesbach (Brian), and grandsons Jude, Colt, Hayes, and Brooks.

Originally from Ohio, Bonnie lived an incredible life of selfless service that impacted thousands of people throughout her community. After getting her Ph.D. at the age of 25 from the University of Oklahoma, Bonnie worked as a Professor of Special Education at the University of Memphis for over 30 years. She advocated for special needs students through her college classes, preparing thousands of special education teachers over the course of her career. After retiring, Bonnie continued her service by volunteering as a “baby hugger” at Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center in Memphis. Twice a week for ten years, she would spend several hours hugging babies in the NICU, giving parents respite from the stress of their child’s medical care while comforting babies with significant medical challenges. Her work was so notable that she was featured on the front page of the Sunday edition of the Memphis Commercial Appeal, which detailed the commitment and love she showed to hundreds of infants for over a decade. Bonnie was also a cherished wife and mother. When she wasn’t donating her time to others, she loved to read and travel, visiting over 42 countries with her husband John. Some of Bonnie’s happiest moments were spent with her children and grandchildren, especially when they gathered every year in Perdido Key, FL. In 2020, Bonnie and John relocated to Athens to be closer to family.

A memorial service will be held at Presbyterian Village, 8021 Macon Hwy. Athens, GA 30606, on Monday, March 17, 2025. The service will start at 11:00 A.M. with a reception following.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations to be made to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, West, Watkinsville, Ga is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com