Christopher was educated in the Richmond County School System where he participated in middle and high school sports such as track and field and basketball. He was also a member of the ROTC. In 1978 he graduated from George P. Butler High School and went on to continue his education at South Carolina State College in Orangeburg, South Carolina. His sheer athletic ability coupled with his self-confidence and ability to speak comfortably in any room lead to him receiving a walk on track and field scholarship. He excelled at hurdling, competing at the collegiate and national levels and even breaking records for the college.
At an early age, Chris was baptized at Second Mount Moriah Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Franklin D. Shaw. As an adult he later joined Thankful Baptist Church in Augusta Georgia where his membership remained until the time of his passing.
Chris joined the United States Armed Services in 1986, where he completed one tour to include a deployment to Korea. His interest in the trucking industry began when he was 18 years old and included summer employment throughout his college years. After completion of his military tour Chris’ love for trucking and adventure led him to a full-time career in the trucking industry for over 25 years.
Chris was a man who was loved by many people, and he never met a stranger. He was best known for his baritone voice, tall stature, and his comedic nature. He was generous to both those he knew and even to strangers. He had an infectious laugh and enjoyed life. He will be missed.
Chris was preceded in death by his father Willie Bonner, Jr. and his son Regional Arnez Bonner.
He is survived by his mother Gaynell S. Bonner, his daughters; Dr. Toya C. (Randall) Foggie; Gastonia, NC; Christina D. Bonner; Augusta GA; his sons; Christopher W. (Jenessi) Bonner, Jr.; Wesley Chapel, FL; Christopher A (Kourtney) Bonner; Summerville, SC; sister; Dr. Monica (Marcus) Patrick; Stockbridge, GA.; brother; Ronald G. Bonner, Jonesboro, GA.; aunt; Vivian Ridley, Country Club Hills, IL; uncles; Norman (Brenda) Bonner; Wilson A. Smalley Sr.; David (Elaine) Smalley; Ronnie (Regina) Smalley; Reginald (Oliva) Smalley; Augusta, GA; Moses (Elaine) Smalley; Lithonia, GA; five grandchildren; Laran and Liam Foggie, Gastonia, NC; Sophia and Peyton Bonner, Roanoke, VA; Cannon Bonner, Wesley Chapel, FL; his companion Tonya Thompson, a special cousin Anthony “Amp” Smalley, and a host of loving relatives and friends.
Viewing will be held Friday, October 7, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the mortuary.
Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, October 8, 2022 at 12:00 noon at Thankful Baptist Church, 302 Walker Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901.
Interment will be in Southview Cemetery, Nellieville Street, Augusta, Georgia.
W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, Georgia 30901 (706)722-6401.