Bonna Sam Mai, age 58, a longtime resident of Lowell, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, September 23, 2023, after a long courageous battle with cancer.

She was the daughter of Sopha Dong Kim and the late Kieng Kim in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. She received her early education in Phnom Penh. Bonna continued her education in the States and graduated from Revere High School.  She continued on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts from Regis College in Weston and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Boston University.

Bonna was employed for over 30 years as an early intervention development specialist at Thom Anne Sullivan Center in Lowell.

Bonna was a visionary in creating her own heaven on earth with her hands in the dirt, her head in the sun, and her heart with nature. She cultivated not only a lush garden but also a sanctuary of peace and beauty. Her tenderness, patience, and sheer willpower were the driving forces behind her backyard oasis. In the colorful blossoms, the fragrant blooms, and the thriving greenery, we were able to see the product of her love and tranquility. Bonna’s garden will forever stand as a testament to her unwavering dedication and the immense beauty she brought into our lives.

Bonna was the loving mother of Brianna, Krissandra, Celena, Alexandra, and Curtis Mai, all of Lowell; the dear sister of Malary Sim, Sokunthy Sam, Sokonthea Kim, Soschanda Sam, and Sopharith Kim; and her chosen sisters Lisa Jean and Dr. Ana Gomez. She was the adored aunt of many nieces and nephews. She was also loved by her cherished companions, her two dogs and five cats.   

Friends and family are invited to attend Bonna’s visitation at the McKenna-Ouellette Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm, located at 327 Hildreth Street in Lowell.  Her Temple Service will be held on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at the Glory Buddhist Temple located at 24 Cambridge Street from 3:00pm to 8:00pm, and it will be open to the public. Her Funeral Service will be on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 7:30a.m. at the Temple followed by a procession to Merrimack Cremation Service located at 10 Henry Clay Drive in Merrimack, NH. In lieu of flowers; donations can be made at the Glory Buddhist Temple.