Bonita Deon "Dell" Paschen

Bonita Deon "Dell" Paschen, 96, of Buckingham, passed away peacefully at Babcock Manor, surrounded by her loving nieces and devoted caregiver, after a courageous battle with dementia. Despite the challenges she faced, Dell remained cheerful, engaging, and an inspiration to those around her until the very end. She cherished her family deeply, treasuring every precious moment spent together.
Born May 28, 1928, in the Toga community of Buckingham County, Dell grew up on the family farm and graduated from Buckingham High School. Seeking new adventures, she left home for the big city life in Richmond, where she met her future husband. Although she didn't pursue a college education, Dell was one of the smartest women you would ever meet. She had a quick wit, and no matter the situation, she always had the correct response and action. Vibrant and engaging, she was the epitome of style and fashion.
A lover of crafts, bowling, and cooking, Dell delighted friends and family with her culinary magic, including her famous Baked Alaska—a dish that never ceased to amaze with its seemingly impossible feat of ice cream surviving a burning wood stove. Known as the "fun" aunt, she had a unique gift of making everyone feel as if they were the most important person in the room. From her early years, she learned the value of faith, family, and caring for others.
In 1953, she met and married the love of her life, LTC Arthur “Art” R. Paschen, Jr., just six months after they met. Their 31-year love story took them around the world, living in St. Louis, Germany, France, Spain, Newport News, San Francisco, and eventually settling in Williamsburg, VA, during retirement. Dell was the sparkle in her husband's eye, always beautifully and elegantly dressed, often the center of attention at officers' balls. Their love story came to an end in 1984 with Art’s passing.
Although she had friends and a life in Williamsburg, Dell returned to Buckingham to care for her mother and, subsequently, other family members during their times of greatest need. She began a new journey and found great joy in her community and church family. She often spoke of the blessings in her life, especially the gift of family and the devoted care from her niece, Kaye, who faithfully looked after her during the last seven years of her life. Dell made the most of each day and was profoundly grateful for the life God had given her.
Dell was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Morgan Pearson and her father, Hal Thornton Pearson. She was also predeceased by her sisters, Nell P. Snoddy, Dorothy P. Webb, and Marie P. LeGrand; her brothers, Hal T. Pearson, Jr., John L. Pearson, and Harry C. Pearson; and a niece, Vickie P. English.
She is survived by her beloved nieces, Kaye W. Cowan (Frank), Lynn P. Perkins (David), and Anne L. Hunt (Tred); nephews, Curtis Pearson (Kristie) and John L. Pearson, Jr; sisters-in-law, Jackie Pearson and Katie Kidd; great-nephews, Allen Cowan (Amber), Matthew English (father Rodney), Chad Perkins (Peyton), Ryan Perkins (Bailey), Harrison Pearson (Abby); great-nieces, Taylor Mills, Sarah, Ella Grace and Addie Pearson; great-great nieces and nephews Penelope, Perry and Pace Perkins, Beck and Remi Perkins, Asa and Ari Cowan; and countless friends.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Carolyn Baldwin, who cared for Dell with unwavering dedication, Pastor Brian Faison for his continued spiritual support and love, as well as the staff of Babcock Manor and Centra Hospice—for their compassionate support. Also, a special thanks to Darnell Blankenship and Dell’s woodman, Chuck Meek and family who were always concerned about keeping Miss Dell warm.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions please consider Antioch Union Baptist Church, 2810 Greenway Rd, Wingina, VA 24599 honoring Dell's lifelong commitment to caring for others.
A funeral service will be held at Antioch Union Baptist Church, Union Campus, Dillwyn, VA, on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 11:00 am with Pastor Brian Faison officiating. Burial will follow in Pearson Family Cemetery.
The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service at the church.
Robinson Funeral Home is assisting the family.