Bonnie Jean Collins Montoya

Bonnie Jean Collins Montoya, Daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Robert Collins of Bennington, passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 24th in Eureka California.Bonnie was born Feb 18 1977, in Bennington VT., and had lived for the past several years in California. Bonnie attended Bennington Elementary School, Mt. Anthony Union Middle School, and graduated from Mt. Anthony Union High School. She studied at Johnson State College and College of the Redwoods. She received her certification in Cosmetology from the Frederick and Charles Beauty School in Eureka CA.Bonnie gave birth to the light of her life, her daughter Camilla Lucia Montoya, on Aug 10 1999, in Austin TX. The family later moved to Eureka CA, where they have lived for several years. Bonnie's career was as a hairstylist. Her many interests included spending time with her large number of friends, cooking, sewing, creative endeavors, knitting, running, working out, walking her dog along the beach, doting on her cat and dog and spending every possible moment with her beloved daughter. Bonnie was a devoted mother to her daughter Camilla, who will be raised by her father Julian Montoya.Bonnie is survived by her beloved daughter, Camilla, her former husband Julian, her parents, Robert and Barbara Collins, her brother and sister in law Christopher and Beth Collins, Her Uncle Douglas and Aunt Jane Collins. She is also survived by countless friends, many of whom were as close as family to her, especially Robb Allen, her devoted and very close friend. Bonnie touched the life of everyone she knew in a way that cannot be described in words. A very bright light has left the world too soon, and she will be missed by many people. There will be a memorial service in California for Bonnie's family and large number of friends there. In late Spring or early Summer, there will be a graveside committal service at the family plot at White Chapel Cemetery.If anyone wishes to make a contribution in memory of Bonnie Montoya, they may contribute to a college fund for her daughter Camilla. Checks should be made out to Camilla Montoya College Fund, and may be sent to Hanson-Walbridge Funeral Home, 213 Main St., Bennington, VT 05201. There will be a memorial service in California for Bonnie's family and large number of friends there. In late Spring or early Summer, there will be a graveside committal service at the family plot at White Chapel Cemetery.