Evelyn "Bonnie" Marie Capriotti (nee Spedding)
March 13, 1944 - May 5, 2024
Evelyn “Bonnie” Marie Capriotti (nee Spedding), 80, of Levittown, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully in her son's home on Sunday, May 5, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, dear friends, and the melodies of her favorite 1950s tunes.
Bonnie was born in her parent's home in East Falls, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on March 13, 1944, as the first child of Clinton and Evelyn Spedding. Bonnie spent her early childhood years in East Falls, sharing many cherished memories with her dear cousin, Millie Weiss, who also grew up in the same neighborhood. The family then relocated to Levittown, Pennsylvania in the 50s, where they continued to grow. From childhood, Bonnie was recognized for her prim and proper demeanor, a trait that would continue to define her in her later years. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1962, fostering lifelong bonds with classmates who became lifelong friends: Peggy, Skeeter, Cathy, Elea, Darlene, and Diane. In August 1964, Bonnie was set up on a blind date with Blair Capriotti, Jr., which sparked an instant connection between them. Just four months later, in December 1964, they sealed their love with marriage. Blair and Bonnie would later plant their roots in Levittown, Pennsylvania and happily welcome three beautiful sons into their lives, Blair III, Anthony “Tony”, and Mark. Their marriage came to an end in 1978.
Evelyn Marie was named after her mother, Evelyn Marie Spedding, by her father during his deployment in France during World War II. It was not until her second birthday, did he return home safely to meet his little girl for the first time. From a young age, she was lovingly nicknamed "Bonnie" by her godmother, Aunt Doris. Bonnie's frequent attire in blue dresses and outfits reminded Aunt Doris of the pampered-yet-adorable character, Bonnie Blue Butler, from Gone with the Wind (1939). To this day, many people continue to know Evelyn as Bonnie, often unaware that Bonnie was merely a nickname.
Bonnie's life was woven with remarkable achievements, deeply cherished relationships, worldly travel, and unconditional love. Her tenure of 31 years with Amtrak not only marked professional success but also forged enduring friendships with colleagues such as Joanne, Lori, and Kathy, who became as close as family. Bonnie and Blair welcomed their third son, Mark Capriotti, who holds the distinction of being the first baby born in Saint Mary Medical Center in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, in 1973. She had a source of pride as a daughter, sister, mother, aunt, great-aunt, great-great-aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend. Bonnie was recognized for her playful habit of adding "The Great" after her name when signing cards for her nieces and nephews—a gesture that, we all can attest, truly captured her spirit, and she relished it.
Bonnie was an avid world traveler, journeying both domestically and internationally to explore new cities and countries. She never missed The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York, a testament to her love for animals, especially dogs. Bonnie was renowned for her habit of stopping on the street to greet any new furry friend she encountered. Bonnie has shared many cherished years with her beloved dogs, Scruffy and Lou, now deceased. For nearly a decade, Bonnie selflessly dedicated herself to the compassionate task of feeding over twenty-five stray cats in the area. One rarely encounters someone who regards animals as family quite like Bonnie did.
Bonnie was unwaveringly devoted, always by the side of her family and friends for every significant milestone, radiating with pride at their accomplishments. As a loyal grandmother and aunt, Bonnie made it a priority never to miss a chance to show her support. She attended daily sporting events, competitions, band concerts, and dance recitals, always cheering on her loved ones with her camera in hand.
Her efforts to make her loved ones feel cherished knew no bounds, infusing joy and celebration into every gathering she attended. Bonnie took great pride in the family she had created with Blair Capriotti Jr. She cared so deeply for the people around her. She accepted everyone with an open heart, open arms, and a smile. Bonnie adored her family, ensuring they knew her love and appreciation through frequent reminders. She often expressed it with handcrafted cards and lottery scratch-offs, but most importantly, through her consistent presence.
Her legacy will be defined by the depth of love she shared with her friends and family. Each person was deeply cherished by Bonnie, and if you had the privilege of knowing her, you felt it profoundly.
Bonnie's gifts were intentional, each carrying a deeper significance behind the item chosen. She valued the little things, a quality evident in her meticulous memory and keen eye for detail.
Family dinners at her beloved "Ponticelli Pizzeria" were cherished moments, filled with laughter, good food, and even better company.
An annual attendee of the PHS Philadelphia Flower Show, Bonnie found solace and beauty in nature's creations. A music enthusiast, Bonnie found joy in the timeless melodies of Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra. She had a passion for dancing and was always urging everyone to join in, reminding them not to take life too seriously all the time. Bonnie was a dedicated fan and supporter of The Pennsbury Instrumental Music Program, faithfully attending concerts for over four decades.
She shared her passion for exploration with her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, taking them on train adventures to cities such as Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington DC.
Bonnie was a collector with diverse interests ranging from stamps, coins, and postcards to cherished Elvis memorabilia, newspaper clippings of current events, Queen Elizabeth memorabilia, pressed flowers and butterflies, and souvenirs from her travels.
Known for her tendency to be fashionably late, many joked about her being on "Bonnie Time". But when it came to catching the next arriving train, Bonnie was always right on schedule!
As a Pisces and born in the Year of the Monkey, Bonnie held a deep fascination with both the Western and Chinese zodiacs, intrigued by the distinct qualities and compatibilities they revealed about herself and her loved ones. She found a fascination in Chinese culture, particularly the vibrant celebrations of Chinese New Year, the intricate floral design, beautiful artwork, and handcrafted lanterns.
Bonnie had a deep connection with butterflies since an early age. To her, they embodied beauty with their vivid hues and intricate designs, while also representing growth, transformation, renewal, and a deep sense of wonder in the natural and spiritual world. She found interest in collecting live butterflies and pressing them. Her love of butterflies has been passed down to her grandchildren.
Bonnie is survived by her loving sons, Blair Capriotti III (Christine), Anthony "Tony" Capriotti (Theresa), and Mark Capriotti (Courtney), and will be sadly missed by her grandchildren, Nicole Paleafico, Blair Capriotti IV (Joana), Marissa K. Capriotti (Joseph), Melanie Jo Capriotti, Anthony Capriotti Jr. (Samantha), Gianni Capriotti, Francesca P. Capriotti, Brooke Capriotti, Megan Capriotti, Corine Capriotti, Ashley Ashwal, and Nicole Ashwal, and her great-grandchildren, Dominic Mascorro, Lucas Mascorro, Blair Capriotti V, Greyson Mascia, and Ameila R. Capriotti.
She is also survived by two siblings, Clinton Spedding Jr. (Sau) and Carolyn Lubinski (the late Ted); her sister-in-law, Jeannette Spedding; her nieces and nephews, Terri (Sean), Clint (Shirley), Tina (Tom), Ed (Michelle), Kawika (Kristyn), Moke (Amanda), Craig, Rachael, Alysa (Justin). Vincent (Kim), Dave (Dorean), Ann Marie, Stephanie (Len), Gina (Jason), Michelle (Sam), Diana (Justin), Dave (Stefanie), Anthony, Maria (Steve), Joey (Jenn), Mike (Cheyanne), and Nikki (Lee); her great-nieces and great-nephews, Sydney, Emily, Christine, Phinette, Ryan, Jason, Amber (Bob), Kevin, Lexi, Joshua, Leilana, Isabella, Chase, Angelina, Miranda, Emily, Nick, Brie, Gina, Nino, Jack, Vincent, Sophia, Jason Jr., Natalie, Sammy, Guliana, Ava, David, Giovanni, Anthony Jr., Sage, Alex, Michael, and Natalie; and her great-great niece and great-great-nephews, Paige, Damien and Logan. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Kelly Kowal.
Bonnie was predeceased by her parents, Clinton and Evelyn Marie Spedding; her former husband, Blair Capriotti Jr.; two siblings, Donald Spedding and Joanne Kahalehoe (the late Melvin), and her nephew, Phuong.
Bonnie also remained in close contact with her in-laws, the late Brenda Cento (Vinnie), Diane Barbetta (Bert), Natalie Marucci (Dave), and Annette Gottsabend (the late Buddy).
In this time of profound loss, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate Chandler Hall Health Services At Home Hospice team who provided support and care to our beloved mother. Their diligence, kindness, and expertise brought comfort and solace to our family during this difficult time. We extend a special thank you to her nurses Judy, Terry, and Joanna, as well as nurse aide Latifah, for their exceptional care during our time of need.
A heartfelt thank you to our Aunt Carolyn Lubinski, for her tireless dedication, loving care, and round-the-clock support. Her selflessness and compassion made a lasting impact on our family, and we are immensely grateful. Her presence brought comfort and reassurance during a difficult time, and we will always cherish the invaluable assistance and support she provided. Thank you for everything.
As we bid farewell to Bonnie, let us remember that she leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, loyalty, and generosity deeply felt by all those who loved her. Though she may be gone from our sight, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched, forever cherished and dearly missed. Whenever a butterfly flutters by, a pansy flower blooms, or a puppy crosses your path, think of Bonnie. May Bonnie rest in eternal peace, free from pain, and may her memory continue to bring comfort to those who mourn her passing.
Please join us in remembering and celebrating Bonnie's life. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Memorial Service on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, 1:00pm at the Wade Funeral Home, 1002 Radcliffe Street, Bristol Borough. Friends may call from 11:00am until time of Service. All are welcome to attend.
Bonnie has expressed her desire for her loved ones to honor her memory by wearing her favorite color, purple, or any bright and cheerful colors of their choice.
We warmly welcome you to pay tribute to the cherished memory of Evelyn “Bonnie” Marie Capriotti in the way that feels most meaningful to you. If you wish to send flowers for the service, the family's arrangements are being designed and created by Fink Flowers, Gifts and Flower Delivery in Bristol, Pennsylvania. In lieu of flowers, contributions to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), an organization that held a special place in Bonnie's heart and to which she dedicated her support, in Bonnie's honor, would be sincerely appreciated.
The Capriotti and Spedding Family
Service Details
Visitation Hours
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
11:00AM-1:00PM
Wade Funeral Home
1002 Radcliffe St, Bristol, PA 19007
Memorial Service
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
1:00PM
Wade Funeral Home
1002 Radcliffe St, Bristol, PA 19007
In Memory of
Evelyn “Bonnie” Marie Capriotti (nee Spedding)
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Carol Lubinski shared a condolence
Chi Chi’s Margaritas and Tacos,
Cinco de Mayo 5-5-2024. Love you Sis ❤️
5/7/2024
Roberta Porfilio shared a condolence
I will always cherish visiting with Bonnie at all of the Band concerts in Pennsbury. She didn't miss a single one! I miss her dearly and my thoughts are with the Family at this time.
5/8/2024
Gabriella Catania shared a condolence
We have known Bonnie for many many years. She was a great customer but most of all a great woman. The love she had for her grandkids was tremendous, you could easily see it every time she would come in with them. The Picone and Catania Family will miss her dearly. A great woman gone too soon. Happy Mother’s Day to you in heaven and may you give a warming hug to your loved ones during this difficult time.
5/9/2024
Johnette Venne shared a condolence
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Bonnie. She had a beautiful soul inside and out and always, always a smile on her face and so happy to see you. And I loved her energy and spirit. Rest in blessed Peace Bonnie🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼
5/7/2024
Hugh Thompson shared a condolence
To the Capriotti and Spedding families, I'm so sorry to hear of Bonnie's passing. We were friends years ago, but it's difficult to say goodbye. God bless you, Bonnie, and also our memories of you and all the family and friends you're leaving behind. (This obituary captured Bonnie's life so beautifully and is the finest obituary I have ever read. The author did a wonderful job of expressing the essence of Bonnie and I commend the work).
5/8/2024
Gladys Kriegler shared a condolence
Bonnie will be missed! She was a sincere valued friend and coworker. Evelyn, (Bonnie) and I were hired together on 9/11/1979 as Amtrak Reservationists. I hope Bonnie knew how much she was appreciated.
5/8/2024
Anne Czajka shared a condolence
Bonnie was a truly lovely person. She always had a smile and A warm greeting. She certainly fit in with the Czajka Clan when we would get together.. I know Stefie has greeted her at the gates of heaven. She will be missed.
5/8/2024
Gladys Kriegler shared a condolence
I forgot to mention in my previous message the author's eulogy of our friend and family member Bonnie was meticulous and heartfelt.
5/10/2024