Carol Joy “CJ” Bonni

October 18, 1940 – September 18, 2025

Carol Joy Bonni, affectionately known as “CJ” and lovingly called “Nanny” by her family, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, in Largo, Florida, at the age of 84.

Born on October 18, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, CJ lived a full and vibrant life marked by hard work, creativity, and compassion. Though she attended Phoenix College, her true education came through her dedication to people, purpose, and community.

CJ’s career was as dynamic as her personality. She worked tirelessly wherever she was needed, continuing until her 80th birthday. Over the years she held many roles, including Amway distributor, “Photo-Mat girl” in Hanover Park, Illinois during the 1970s, and most often, an office manager—serving with WEDU, an architectural firm in Pinellas County, and a Kidney Dialysis Center in St. Petersburg.

Beyond her professional life, CJ was deeply connected to her spiritual community. A well-known astrologist in St. Petersburg, she shared her wisdom and compassion with countless people. She also served on the Board of the First Unity Church, where she loved singing in the choir and built friendships that lasted a lifetime.

CJ’s journey took her across the country, with homes in Chicago, Racine, Hanover Park, St. Petersburg, and Phoenix. No matter where she lived, she brought warmth, humor, and love to those around her.

She is survived by her sons Brian Leahy and Tim Leahy; her brother Michael Bonni, Jr. (Sharon); and her sister Betti Bonni. She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her son Kevin Leahy and daughter Karyn Leahy.

To her family, she was simply “Nanny”—the heart of so many memories, known for her strength, her voice that filled a room with song, her laughter that brought people together, and the love she gave so freely.

A celebration of life will be held at King of Peace, 6085 Park Blvd, Pinellas Park, FL 33781, on October 25th, with a service from 1:00–2:00 pm and a reception to follow from 2:00–3:00 pm.

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