Bonita (Turner) Lewis

Obituary Program Link

On December 2, 1957, Bonita Turner, the daughter of Melvin Turner, Sr. and Gertrude Detrion Turner, was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. As the youngest of five children, she was a devoted daughter

and sister. In her later years, she relocated to Selma, Alabama, where she became known as Bonita Turner Lewis.

Bonita committed her life to Christ at an early age" and after moving to Selma, she became an ardent disciple of the Tabernacle of Praise Church. There, she served diligently as a greeter and intercessor until health challenges arose.

As a mother and grandmother, Bonita exemplified Christian values, embodying the spirit of the Proverbs 31 woman. Her integrity and cheerful demeanor were evident in her interactions; leaving a lasting impression on those around her.

She was also a dedicated friend and sister, often interceding for and with others. Her worship of God was reflected in her actions and service.

Bonita will be fondly remembered as a devoted cosmetologist, known for her radiant smile and unwavering support for her clients. Prior to her retirement, she served as a Cosmetology Instructor at Wallace Community College of Selma.

Renowned for her exceptional gumbo, she would often get requests for this famous dish. Bonita fought the good fight, finished her course, and kept the faith.

On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, Bonita departed this life, entering the presence of the Lord.

She is survived by treasured memories with her two sons, Lamar (Marty) Cummings, Sr. and Nathaniel (Lil' Nate) Lewis, Jr., both of Selma, AL; one grandson, Lamar Cummings, Jr.; two sisters, Barbara Turner and Sandra Turner Garrett, both of New Orleans, Louisiana; one nephew, Torrey Turner of Selma, Alabama; two nieces, Racquell Garrett of Texas, Eboni Turner, and Sequilla Bourgeois of New Orleans, Louisiana; one great-niece, Shadae Bourgeois of New Orleans, Louisiana; other relatives; numerous friends; two childhood friends she considered as sisters, Yolanda Cole and Phyllis Johnston, and a devoted sister in Christ, Irene Bonner.

Bonita was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Regina Turner; one brother, Melvin Turner, Jr. and one nephew, Melvin Turner, Ill.

Funeral service has been scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 10:00AM from Tabernacle of Praise Church with Bishop Effell Williams, officiating.  Burial will follow in the Serenity Memorial Gardens with Aubrey Larkin's Lewis Brothers Funeral Home serving with excellence through professional service.  Ms. Lewis will lie in repose one hour prior to the funeral hour at the church.   

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.