Obituary of Bonita Charlene Cotter

Bonita (Bonnie) Charlene Cotter, age 66, of Westville, passed away suddenly on January 21, 2026.

Born on December 22, 1959, Bonnie was the beloved daughter of the late Jeanne Ferguson and the late Massey Cotter.

Bonnie was a Master Stylist and later pursued her passion for education, earning her Bachelor of Education from St Francis Xaiver University. She taught in the northern communities for several years before returning home to Nova Scotia, where she continued to serve her community as a substitute teacher. Bonner also worked at the women’s centre, dedicating her time to supporting those in need. She selflessly put her own life on hold to care for her mother, a role she embraced with love and devotion.

In 2009, Bonnie began her Where the Heart Goes journey, a movement rooted in kindness, connection, and love. Through this journey, she helped over 5,000 hearts connect across the world, showing that her love truly knew no bounds.

Bonnie is survived by her loving son, Joshua (Jamie) of Caribou River, NS; her brothers, Steven (Cathy) of Trenton, NS, Rocky of New Glasgow, NS, and Howie (Cathy) of Plymouth, NS; and her stepbrother, David Ferguson of Westville, NS. She will be lovingly remembered by her nephews, John (Chrissy) of Fredericton, NB; Derek (Danielle) of Trenton, NS; Jerry (Heather) of New Glasgow, NS; Brandon (Megan) of Stellarton, NS; as well as her niece, Jaclyn (Chris) of Trenton, and several great-nieces.

Bonnie was predeceased by her parents, Jeanne Ferguson and Massey Cotter; her stepfather, Nugent Ferguson; her brother, Jeffery Cotter; and her stepbrother Edward Ferguson.

A Celebration of Life for Bonnie will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 2:00m – 4:00pm at the Plymouth Fire Hall officiated by Rev Dr. Glen Matheson. Family flowers only. Donations in Bonnie’s memory may be made to the Nova Scotia Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to a charity of one’s choice. Interment will take place at Gairloch Cemetery at a later date.

We ask those who knew and loved Bonnie to honor her memory by passing on acts of kindness, just as she always did.

Where the Heart Goes, Love will follow

Where the Heart Goes, Love will lead

Carry kindness in your pocket

Pass it on to those you meet!