Bonnie Marie Meilhammer Gross, a beloved mother, cherished friend, and dedicated member of her church community, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the age of 76. Bonnie was born on April 18, 1950, in Salisbury, Maryland, where she spent her formative years and built a life surrounded by family and friends.

Bonnie dedicated many years to serving the students and staff of West Salisbury Elementary School as a cafeteria worker. Her role as the "lunch lady" brought her immense joy, and she cherished the relationships she formed with the children and her colleagues throughout her career, which she concluded with pride in 2014.

A lifelong resident of Salisbury, Bonnie was a faithful member of Woodside Chapel, where she found a second family in her church community. Her faith sustained her throughout her life, and she was known for her warm spirit and kind heart.

Bonnie loved music, especially the heartfelt sounds of her favorite artist, Conway Twitty. She found joy in watching classic television shows such as Gunsmoke, The Rifleman, and Big Valley, along with indulging in game shows that kept her entertained. In her leisure time, she enjoyed tending to her flowers and relished riding her tricycle with her beloved husband and their dog, Harley D.

Bonnie is survived by her devoted son, Larry Gross (Dana); her loving daughter, Penny Gross; her special friend, Linda Hudson; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Their fond memories of her will live on in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Meilhammer; loving grandparents who raised her, John and Martha Meilhammer; her beloved husband of 56 years, Robert Gross, Jr.; her beloved aunt, Rose; a brother, Johnny Kenney; many well-loved aunts and uncles; and her faithful dog, "Harley D."

The family will hold a memorial service to celebrate Bonnie's life on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, where family and friends may call from 10:00 to 11:00.

Memorial donations may be made in honor of Bonnie to Woodside Chapel, 1306 Toadvine Road, Salisbury, Maryland, 21804.