Bonnie Kay Tibbits, 76, passed away peacefully March 7, 2026. She was born March 21, 1949, in Vincennes, Indiana, to Ivan and Norma Brumley.

Bonnie grew up in Vincennes with her sister, Anita Tatman, and from a young age learned the value of hard work and family. She was active in Girl Scouts and proudly attended the Girl Scout Roundup in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

She attended Indiana State University, earning a degree in Early Childhood Education. After college, Bonnie moved to Colorado and worked as a buyer and merchandiser, helping organize fashion promotions and events.

After marrying Richard Tibbits in 1976, Bonnie settled in Southwest Colorado, where she dedicated much of her life to early childhood education. She played a key role in developing Teddy Bear Preschool in Dolores, helping to grow the program from a small classroom to a thriving preschool serving dozens of children and families. She later continued her work supporting children and families through The Pinon Project.

Bonnie loved gardening, swimming, stained glass, sewing, playing dominoes, and her animals. She will be remembered for her independence, determination, and dedication to children and her community.

She is survived by Richard Tibbits, her children, Ivan Tyler Tibbits and Kyan Maloney; her son-in-law Shalun Maloney; her grandson Rylan Maloney.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.