Bonnie Jean Nichols: The Heart and Sweet Soul of Francesco’s

For nearly half a century, Francesco’s Italian Restaurant was a treasured gathering place in Granger, known for its warm service and unforgettable food. And if you ever stepped through those doors and were greeted with a kind smile and a perfect table, chances are it was thanks to one extraordinary woman—Bonnie Jean Nichols.

Bonnie wasn’t just a hostess; she was the heart of the restaurant. She remembered names, favorite booths, and even what you liked to order. “She always found a good table for the people she knew,” recalled Sheila C. Others echoed the same sentiment: “I loved her!”, said Marsha B. and Ethel S., and Jeff G. put it simply: “She was the best.”

Born and raised on a ranch in Colorado, Bonnie grew up surrounded by a large, loving family. She and her twin sisters were cheerleaders, and Bonnie carried that same spirit and warmth into every corner of her life. She married her high school sweetheart, Roy, and together they built a beautiful life, sharing 45 years of marriage rooted in love and family.

At Francesco’s, Bonnie brought her gifts not only as a hostess but as an exceptional baker. Her homemade desserts were legendary—fudgy brownies (frosted or not, depending on your craving), melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookies, and an assortment of other treats, all made from scratch and displayed temptingly at the front counter. “We would stop by just for the brownies,” remembered Ron R.—a sentiment shared by many.

Bonnie’s baking was more than just good food; it was a reflection of who she was: generous, thoughtful, and full of heart. Whether greeting regulars by name or slipping an extra cookie into a takeout bag, she had a way of making everyone feel like family.

Outside the restaurant, Bonnie was just as vibrant. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. She was an expert cook at home too, and her beautiful yard in Taylorsville was the pride of her neighborhood. Her world revolved around her family, and she shared her joy and talents freely with everyone lucky enough to know her.

When Bonnie passed away in November 2013, the community lost a truly special soul. But her legacy lives on—in the fond memories of customers, the stories told over dinner tables, and the sweet, simple joy of a perfect brownie.

-Sheri Kimball Biesinger