Joe graduated from Dougherty School in 1957, where he was a standout athlete, especially on the basketball court. Lightning fast, confident, and remarkably talented, he once scored 46 points in a single game.

He married Patty Kay Pinkston at Dougherty Baptist Church in 1960. Their lasting legacy is found in their two daughters and continues with a growing family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joe passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, with his daughters attending to him through his final days. He was resilient, tough, caring and generous. He died with the same grit and endurance that shaped the way he lived.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Pearlie Mae Bonham; two brothers, Vernon Bonham and Gene Bonham; his sister, Rhoda Pack; and three sisters in law; Joyce Bonham, Louann Bonham, and Kathy Bonham.

He is survived by his wife, Patty Bonham of Dougherty; his two daughters, Beth Bonham Phillips (Lee) of Las Vegas, NV, Amy Bonham Young (Chris) of Bella Vista, AR; his grandchildren; his brother, Bobby Bonham; many beloved nieces and nephews; and a host of great-nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30 at Hale’s Funeral Home in Davis. A service to celebrate his life will follow at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 31 at Midway Hill Baptist Church, 5359 State Highway 7, Sulphur, OK 73086.

Services are “Entrusted To” HALE’S Funeral Home of Davis, OK. Online condolences may be offered at halesfuneralhomes.com.