Bonnie MacDougal

Bonnie Louise MacDougal, 76, passed away October 10, 2025, after a brief but fierce battle with cancer.

Bonnie was born August 12, 1949, in Elizabethtown, NY, the third child of Phebe Morse and Orren MacDougal. Bonnie attended Westport High School. Bonnie lived her life with free will and the brightest of light. She spent her whole career in the hospitality industry, working many different jobs in the field. Feeding people was her love language, and if you were ever lucky enough to taste her Chicken and Dumplings, then you already know. Bonnie loved Tony Stewart, and also her family and friends....but it really was Tony Stewart first. She never met an animal that didn't need to be "rescued". Bonnie was a music lover, a crossword wizard and had the best sense of humor. She was an old soul with a dose of hippie thrown in. Affectionately known to her family as "Moonbeam". She lived for her "retail therapy" sessions with Marc and Ben and could always use a new bathrobe.

Bonnie was able to spend her last few months in her hometown of Essex, sitting on her grandparent's front porch and enjoying all things that are Essex. Spending her days with her daughter Katie and sister Susie, among many other family and friends who surrounded her with love. Left to cherish our "Moonbeam" are her children, grandchildren, siblings, cherished nieces and nephews and many close friends.

"Tho' it's time for parting and my tears are starting, leave me with a smile. Tho' your heart may cry dear, when you say goodbye dear, leave me with a smile. Maybe it's forever, so while we're together, for a little while; hold me like a flower for a little hour and leave me with a smile." Bonnie's family would like to thank the staff at Fitzpatrick Cancer Center and CVPH for the stellar care they gave our Moonbeam. You gave her hope and that was all she ever wanted.

Bonnie was predeceased by her parents, her stepfather Lester Sweatt and her brother George "Bucky" Sweatt. A celebration to share stories and memories of Bonnie will take place Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 2pm at The Old Stone Church (formerly the Legion Hall) 11 Church St, Essex, NY 12936. Memorial contributions can be made to your local animal shelter or rescue.

Services were entrusted to Heidrick Funeral Home, PO Box 188, Elizabethtown, NY 12932.