Virginia Faye Bonds, née Mitchell, was born on November 1, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois, to the union of Lucille and Lathion Mitchell. As the oldest daughter in a family of eight children, consisting of four boys and four girls, Virginia naturally became an important part of her family’s foundation.

Affectionately known as “Jenny” or “Fats,” Virginia graduated from Harper High School in 1979 before continuing her education at John Amico School of Hair Design. Upon completing her studies, Jenny began working as a hairstylist, a career that allowed her creativity and vibrant personality to shine. She eventually opened her own salon, Just Jam, where she spent many years making others feel beautiful and confident. Even after the shop closed, Jenny continued doing what she loved by styling hair from her home.

In addition to her career as a hairstylist, Jenny built a career with the Board of Elections, where she worked faithfully until her retirement in 2008.

In 1982, Jenny married Marvin Bonds Sr., and their union was blessed with three children: Kyla, Kachet, and Marvin Jr. Although their marriage ended in 1995, Jenny’s devotion to her children remained steadfast. Following the divorce, she moved with her children from Chicago to Murphysboro, Illinois, where she continued building a life centered on family, love, and community.

Jenny accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and attended various churches throughout her life. After moving to Murphysboro, she began attending Morning Star Baptist Church, where her children were later baptized. Her faith was an important part of who she was. She lovingly spoke of “my black Jesus” and could often be found listening to gospel music throughout the day, especially the music of Leandria Johnson. Her faith and love for gospel music brought her comfort and joy.

Jenny was well known throughout her community for her bubbly personality, beautiful smile, kind heart, and infectious energy. She had a way of bringing laughter and warmth wherever she went, and spending time with family was among her greatest joys. There was always room for more laughter, more love, and another cherished memory.

As the oldest daughter, Jenny played an important role in helping raise her younger siblings, leaving a lasting impression on their lives. Her caring nature extended far beyond her immediate family. Throughout the years, she opened her home to relatives who needed a place to stay or a meal to eat. Jenny never wanted anyone to go without when she had something to give. Her home was a place of comfort and welcome, reflecting the generosity and love that came so naturally to her.

Jenny also knew how to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, especially when it came to good food. Her nickname, “Fats,” was a loving reflection of her enjoyment of eating, and lasagna held a special place among her favorite dishes for many years. She treasured the friendships she had maintained since childhood, including her dear friend Stephanie, who served as the godmother to all three of her children. She also held a special bond with her good friend Tanika, who preceded her in death.

Jenny’s life was filled with family, faith, friendship, laughter, and love. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, her welcoming heart, her unmistakable personality, and the many ways she made others feel cared for. The memories she created and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Virginia was preceded in death by her father, Lathion Mitchell; her sister, Michelle Mitchell; her brother, Jerome Mitchell; and her dear friend, Tanika.

She leaves to cherish her memory her mother, Lucille Mitchell; her children, Kyla Bonds, Kachet Bonds, and Marvin Bonds; her granddaughters, Cheyenne, Chrisette, and Chelsea; her sisters, Catherine and Angela; her brothers, Bryan, Steve, and Mike; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, lifelong friends, and other relatives who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Ministry of Comfort was lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.