Anne Bracy Bonds

Obituary for Anne Bracy Bonds

Title: Anne Bracy Bonds, Lover of Chocolate, Infectious Laugher, Impeccable Style, Private School Restauranteur and Avid Golfer passed away peacefully on July 31st, 2025 in Nashville, TN at the age of 92

Anne was born in Nashville, Tennessee and graduated from Hillsboro High School and soon embarked on an adventurous career as a stewardess. Later, she met Erskin Bonds, the love of her life, at WTVF, Nashville’s CBS affiliate, where she worked as a receptionist and he as a salesman. Within a year, they were married on Valentine’s Day, and became a family that included Anne’s daughter, Terry. Next came their son, Chris, and three years later, daughter Meril.

In addition to being a devoted mother, she was an avid golfer, kept a tight knit group of friends who played tennis every month, enjoyed entertaining, and became known for her distinctive laughter. She later got the idea to start a food service at her daughter’s school and soon expanded her foodie enterprise into 5 other area private schools, providing delicious lunches to kindergarteners through high schoolers. It was wildly popular until she retired 20 years later.

Anne was devoted to her family, especially to her son Chris, who was born with Muscular Dystrophy and passed away at 28. Her love extended to her grandson, Stephen Stites, Jr., of Charlotte, NC, his wife Crystal, and her great-grandchildren, Antoinette Grace (Toni) and Stephen III (Tripp).

Anne and Erskin were enthusiastic golfers and often played together and with friends. She loved to play bridge table and socialize at the Centennial Club, and regularly attended church, where she enjoyed singing the old hymns of her childhood. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, with the Bible verses of 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 being her favorite. This was where the gifts of the Holy Spirit were listed, with “love as the greatest of these”, though she thought her own superpower was discernment.

Survived by children Teresa Whittle, Meril (David C.) Gerstenmaier; grandchildren Stephen (Crystal) Stites, Jr., Bradley (Robin) White; cousin Stafford (Peggy) McNamee; great grandchildren Antoinette Grace “Toni” Stites, Stephen “Tripp” Stites, III, as well as numerous cousins, great nephews and nieces.

Preceded in death by her son Christopher Erskin Bonds; husband Homer Erskin Bonds and brother Benjamin Hume, Jr.

Anne Bracy Bonds will be remembered for her zest for life and laughter, her willingness to support her family and friends, and ability to rise to any occasion. Her thoughtful and vibrant spirit will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.