Bonnie Slade was a mother, surfer, and child psychologist living in Sebastian, Florida. She passed away on September 2, 2023 at the age of 72, surrounded by her loving family. Passing away at this age was the result of her ongoing battles with Multiple Sclerosis and Stiff Person Syndrome.

Bonnie was born and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, one of four daughters born to Sara and Irwin Batter. She was a middle child amongst her sisters, Nikki, Laurie, and Lynda.

Bonnie attended Vassar College for her bachelor's degree, followed by UC Davis for her doctorate in psychology. After teaching briefly at Yale, she moved to Florida with Jeffrey Slade, a veterinarian and her husband.

There, Bonnie opened her child psychology practice, Jeff opened his animal hospital, and the two of them began their life in Sebastian, Florida. They married on New Year's Day of 1982 and within a few years had two daughters, Jennifer and Sally. In a long and accomplished life, nothing meant as much to Bonnie as being a mom to her two daughters.

After a wonderful career, which included not just helping her own patients, but also drafting and lobbying for changes across many laws pertaining to foster care to help children throughout the state of Florida, Bonnie retired. It was then she discovered her love of surfing.

Bonnie started a local posse of surf minded and similarly aged women called the Shredding Betties. She recruited friends, who in turn recruited friends, and soon even veterans on the beach became friendly to the gang. Betties of all skill levels were known to gather at the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, finding each other thanks to Betty-branded, hot pink items and war whoops on the waves. These incredible women became her cherished friends and community throughout the rest of her life.

A paddle out is a surfer's funeral. As the name implies, surfers paddle out into the ocean and form a circle beyond the breakers to speak, clasp hands, and celebrate the life of one of their own. A paddle out ceremony that meant much more to Bonnie than a traditional formal funeral.

If you were a friend to Bonnie, you may join us and the Shredding Betties at 8am on October 15, 2023, on the north side of the jetty at the Fort Pierce Inlet. Landlubbers, boogie boarders, and surfers alike will be welcomed. We will be there regardless of weather, because as Betty would say, "Go before you know!"