Bonnie Lee (Cashin) Farmer

YARMOUTH – Bonnie Lee (Cashin) Farmer, Ph.D., 76, died on June 5, 2024, at the Gosnell House in Scarborough. She was born on April 18, 1948, in Boston, Mass., daughter of the late William and Irene (Riedel) Cashin; she grew up in Manchester, N.H.

On May 19, 1973, she married Richard E. Farmer. They were married for 51 loving years and were the proud parents of Erin and Paul.

Growing up in Manchester, N.H., Bonnie had a wonderful childhood filled with school and community activities. Early on, she developed an interest in the medical field, leading to a long and distinguished career in nursing. She pursued her nursing education with dedication, earning degrees from Northeastern University, St. Anselm College, University of New Haven, and the University of Rhode Island, culminating in a PhD in Nursing.

Bonnie began her career as a “Candy Striper” in 1963 and went on to serve in various public health organizations and hospitals. She eventually became a distinguished member of the Faculty of Nursing at the University of Southern Maine, retiring in 2012 as an Associate Professor of Nursing.

After her retirement, Bonnie embraced her love of music, fulfilling a lifelong dream, she learned to play the guitar. She became a member of the 317 Maine Community Music Center, where she sang and played guitar; bringing joy and entertainment to all. Bonnie’s beautiful spirit will be missed by all who know her.

Bonnie is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Richard; and her children, Erin and her husband Craig Dunlop of Bristol, R.I., Paul and his wife Lindsey Farmer of Sullivan; five grandchildren, Madelynne and Elizabeth Dunlop, Fiona, Sadie, and Clark Farmer.

A Celebration of Bonnie’s Life will take place at 11 a.m. on June 15 at the 317 Main Community Music Center, 317 Main St., Yarmouth.