Cecil Nelson Bonds

Cecil Nelson Bonds Cecil Nelson Bonds age 91, of McAlpin, FL passed away early Friday morning, December 14, 2012 at Haven Hospice in Lake City, FL. He was a native and life long resident of Suwannee County. The World War II veteran reached the rank of Staff Sargeant and served in the U.S. Army as a Communications Chief. He was in the Tunisian, Sicilian, Normandy and Northern France Campaigns, as well as the Rhineland Campaign. His decorations and citations included the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Bronze Star. Having been twice wounded he was awarded the Purple Heart with Oak Cluster. He was first wounded in action on September 17th, 1944 and again on March 2, 1945 in the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater. He was honorably discharged August 14, 1945. Returning home he served Suwannee County as a Deputy Sheriff for 21 years. He loved refinishing old furniture that he purchased while vacationing in the mountains. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a member of Friendship Baptist Church. He was predeceased by his first wife, Myrtice Bonds and a brother, Jack Bonds. Survivors include his wife, Edna Bonds, Viera, FL; one daughter, Sharon (Leon) Harris, Archer, FL; two sons, Martin (Susan) Bonds, Palatka, FL; Michael Bonds, Live Oak, FL; four grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Visitation was held Sunday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Funeral services were held 11:00 AM, Monday, December 17, 2012 in the Friendship Baptist Church with Dr. David Teems and Rev. Louis Berry officiating. Interment followed in the church Cemetery with full military rites at the graveside. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches, P.O. Box 2000, Live Oak, FL 32064.