Important Service Update:

Due to the inclement weather and cemetery conditions, the funeral service has been rescheduled to 12:00 PM on Tuesday (previously 11:00 AM).

Obituary

Bonnie B. Shrager, 84, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Wesley Enhanced Living in Media, Pennsylvania.

Born in Plainfield, New Jersey, Bonnie was raised in North Plainfield and carried with her the values of community, learning, and service that shaped her remarkable life. She later lived in Plainfield for two decades, then in Green Brook, New Jersey, before settling at Canal Walk in Somerset, where she enjoyed many meaningful years surrounded by friends and an active community.

A proud graduate of North Plainfield High School, Bonnie went on to further her education at Wells College in New York, earning her bachelor’s degree in biology. She married her high school sweetheart, James J. Shrager, in 1963, beginning a loving partnership that spanned more than six decades. Together they built a beautiful family and life rooted in devotion and mutual respect.

Bonnie embraced her role as a homemaker with great pride and joy, creating a warm and nurturing home for her family. When her two children were older, she re-entered the workforce with enthusiasm and purpose, serving as a librarian assistant with the Somerset County Library System in Bridgewater, New Jersey. Surrounded by books and lifelong learners, it was a role perfectly suited to her curious mind and love of reading.

Her commitment to community service was extraordinary. Bonnie served as President of the Union County League of Women Voters and as President of the Plainfield Area United Way, generously giving her time and leadership to causes that strengthened her community. At Canal Walk, she was a devoted member of the Hadassah chapter, serving for several years as Vice President of Membership and continuing her lifelong dedication to charitable work and Jewish causes.

Bonnie was a faithful member of Temple Beth-El of Plainfield, and later Congregation Beth Israel in Scotch Plains following the merger of the congregations. Her faith and heritage were important parts of her life and identity.

An avid reader, Bonnie found joy and adventure in books throughout her life. She also loved skiing and playing tennis, embracing activity and the outdoors with enthusiasm. She and James shared a love of travel, including a memorable trip to Australia, and treasured time spent at the shore in Beach Haven, New Jersey, where family memories were made year after year.

Above all, Bonnie was devoted to her family. She is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, James J. Shrager; her daughter, Jennifer Shrager and her husband Eli Lourie; her son, Jeffrey Shrager and his wife Carol Cannon; her cherished grandchildren, Jonah Lourie and Celia Lourie; and her sister, Susan Lippitt. She leaves behind a legacy of intellect, compassion, leadership, and unwavering love.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Boulevard, Watchung, New Jersey 07069, followed by interment at Beth Israel Cemetery in Woodbridge, New Jersey.

Bonnie’s life was one of purpose, service, and deep devotion to family and community. She will be remembered for her intelligence, quiet strength, and the enduring love she shared with those closest to her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hadassah [LINK]  in memory of Bonnie B. Shrager.

LIVE-STREAM FUNERAL SERVICE LINK

Following the interment at Beth Israel Cemetery, all are invited to gather for a luncheon at:

Bruno’s Restaurant

116 Mountain Boulevard Extension

Warren, NJ 07059

Shiva will be observed as follows:

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

At the home of Lauren Zissu (Bonnie’s niece)

2 Silver Leaf Court

Warren, NJ 07059

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

1:00 PM to 4:30 PM

At the home of Lauren Zissu

2 Silver Leaf Court

Warren, NJ 07059

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

At the home of Lauren Zissu

2 Silver Leaf Court

Warren, NJ 07059

Thursday, February 26, 2026

7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

At the home of Jennifer Shrager (Bonnie’s daughter)

501 Cool Valley Lane

Media, PA 19603

Friday, February 27, 2026

1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

At the home of Jennifer Shrager

501 Cool Valley Lane

Media, PA 19603