Lillian Achey Bonomo of Wilkes-Barre peacefully entered eternal rest on Sunday, August 30, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Wilkes-Barre on January 8, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Emily Moses and John Achey and a proud graduate of G.A.R. Memorial High School, Class of 1959.
Lillian married Steven A. Bonomo Sr. of Wilkes-Barre, and together they raised their three children, Steven, Michael, and Rachael. She worked at The Woodlands, Wilkes-Barre General Hospital and The Mohegan Sun Arena before retiring.
Her faith guided her throughout her life. A devoted member of St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church, Lillian often helped in the kitchen and lovingly prepared Syrian bread, kibbeh, grape leaves, baklava, and other family recipes. Through her cooking, she shared her heritage and brought people together. As a very active member of the Ladies of St. Mary’s auxiliary group, she poured her heart into spaghetti nights, church rummage sales, and other fundraisers in support of her church.
She enjoyed visiting the Senior Center several times a week, supporting G.A.R Memorial High School football and wrestling booster clubs, Monday morning breakfast club at Abe’s with friends, and traveling, especially on cruises.
She treasured her lifelong friendships and especially enjoyed regular outings with her classmates, and was elated to attend her 60th class reunion in 2019.
Above all, she cherished her family, particularly her eight grandchildren, who were the apples of her eye. She took great pride in their lives and loved attending their sporting events, recitals, and celebrations.
During her recovery, Lillian shared special time with her granddaughter Emily, a nurse, whose professional care and loving companionship reflected their close bond.
Lillian was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Steven A. Bonomo Sr., who passed away in August 1987; her parents, Emily Moses and John Achey; and her brother, John Achey, who passed away in February 1987.
She is survived by her sons, Dr. Steven Bonomo and his wife, Lisa, and Dr. Michael Bonomo and his wife, Judy; her daughter, Rachael Fick and her husband, Charlie; her brothers, Elias Achey and his wife, Julia, and David Achey and his wife, Barbara; her sister, Janet Holovach and her husband, Michael “Mickey”; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She also leaves her cherished grandchildren, Megan, Julia, Steven, Michael, Alyssa, Nicholas, Emily, and Brett.
Lillian will be remembered for her faith, generosity, Syrian traditions, friendships, love of travel, and devotion to her family. Her legacy will live on through the recipes she shared and the many memories cherished by those who knew and loved her.
Lillian’s Celebration of Life will be conducted on Saturday, September 5 at St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church, Wilkes-Barre. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects from 9-10 AM, with the funeral service following at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery, Hanover Township.
In lieu of flowers, Lillian’s family kindly asks that memorial donations be made to St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church.
Arrangements are by Mamary-Durkin Funeral & Cremation Services, 59 Parrish St. Wilkes-Barre.
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