Bonita-Rosalyne McKay was born on January 16, 1964, to George and Samella Ware in Birmingham, Alabama. Her parents preceded her in death.
She graduated from Shaw High School in 1982 where she earned the title of best dancer. She also entered into the field of modeling and attended Barbizon Modeling school. Bonita-Rosalyne earned her degree in Early Childhood Education where she worked throughout her career. Some of her places of employment were Collinwood Community Services Center,
Hillhouse (currently Magnolia Club House), Vocational Guidance Services (where she earned the “Miss Congeniality Award”), and at Laurelwood Hospital, all of which led to her being a Director of The Phyllis Wheatley Association.
She met and eventually married the love of her life, Michael McKay, Sr., on October 22, 1988. To this union were born Myeisha Jacquelyne and her twin brother, Michael McKay, Jr.
After 20+ years of service, Bonita-Rosalyne retired from Starting Point in February 2021. Bonita-Rosalyne had a magnetic personality and never met a stranger. She was great at maintaining relationships with those near and far. She encouraged everyone around her to be the best they could be and made sure her loved ones felt her full support.
Over the years, Bonita beat Cancer twice in 2005 and 2017 and recently was diagnosed with Stomach Cancer. She was a fighter! In sickness and in health, she made a way to be there.
Some of her greatest joys were socializing with her family and friends. She loved to dance, to garden and share her love for others through cooking. Bonita-Rosalyne also loved to travel and enjoyed vacationing, and riding motorcycles.
Bonita-Rosalyne McKay is survived by her loving husband, Michael McKay Sr., her two children: Myeisha J. Sebro (Brian) and Michael McKay Jr., three sisters; Jacquelyne Parker (Dwyane) of Cleveland, Novetia Ware of Cleveland, Betty Traylor of Youngstown and two brothers; George Ware Jr. of Youngstown and LaMarcus Ware (Stephanie) of Daphne, Alabama. Three brothers; Puncho, Gary and Keith preceded her in death. She is also survived by three grandchildren; Brian Jr., Brandon and Lyndon Sebro as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and the Shaw High and Starting Point Families.