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Kill Devil Hills – Bonnie Hilderbrand Stearns, 69, of Kill Devil Hills NC, passed away at home July 19, 2021. She was surrounded by family when she departed this life for the next, and true to her nature she showed immense strength and bravery throughout the illness that led to her untimely passing.

Bonnie was born January 2, 1952 to the late Lewis and Elizabeth Hilderbrand. She was a feisty, adventurous child who grew into a kind, hardworking, beautiful woman. She was a devoted wife to husband Phillip Stearns, who was the love of her life and her constant companion as they built a successful life a together and pursued their dreams.

Bonnie is survived by children, Carl Warren Stallings (Angie), the late Christopher Lewis Stallings, Sean Stearns, and Ryan Stearns (Alicia). She was an amazing Nana to grandchildren Corey Stallings (Kayla), and her first great grandchild on the way (Baby Stallings), Jason Stallings (Megan), Dylan Mullikin, and Mara Stearns. She was a loving sister to Sam Hilderbrand (Becky), Tony Hilderbrand (Cheryl), the late Steve Hilderbrand (Sue), and the late Ted Hilderbrand. She leaves behind countless special friends who became family, as well as a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, her WV church family, her “pool” industry family, and many others who will never forget the special person she was. Her beloved dogs were always by her side.

Gardening and farming were a passion that Bonnie never tired of, she loved working the soil and bringing a garden to life. Her wildflowers and sunflowers on the farm she and her husband shared in Duck, West Virginia were second to none. She truly had a green thumb, and a deep love of nature. She loved to bird-watch, collect sea glass, was a talented crafter, and an amazing cook. She was a natural caretaker and was always willing to help anyone in need. She was a hardworking, ambitious person and provided opportunity to many in the successful business she built with Phil. She touched the lives of everyone who met her in a positive way and was very strong in her faith and love of the Lord.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, to be determined, and all will be welcome at that time. There will be a private family service this week. In lieu of flowers, Bonnie asked that donations be made to Walnut Grove Church, via Judy Shafer judyshafer@frontiernet.net  / Walnut Grove Church c/o Judy Shafer, PO BOX 416, Birch River, WV 26610.

Expressions of sympathy and comfort are welcome via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

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