Born: February 9, 1944 - Deceased: September 3, 2021
Bernedena E. Fleming (nee Walker), age 77, of Swansea, IL passed away the morning of September 3rd, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born February 9, 1944, in Pompton Plains, NJ, a daughter of the late Ralph Walker and Evelyn Baroody.
Bernedena was preceded in death by her:
- Sister, Betty Arnst
- Brother, Sonny Walker
- Granddaughter, Megan McCoy of Belleville, IL.
She is survived by her:
- Husband, Larry Fleming
- Daughter and Son-in-law, Darlene and David Kasten of Lebanon, IL
- Granddaughters:
- Melissa Keller nee McCoy
- Melody McCoy
- Brother, John Walker
- Sisters:
- Lois Harrison
- Florence Johnson
- She also leaves behind many other family members and friends who will miss her dearly
Bernedena in her earlier years was an avid traveler and Volksmarcher who completed dozens of walks in the U.S. and Germany during her life. She retired as an administrative assistant from Peabody in St Louis. During the time she lived in Swansea, IL she was a member of the local Moose Lodge and gave back to her community in many ways. Among her many ways, was reading for MindsEye in Belleville, IL, belonging to a quilting group, made sensory blankets for Alzheimer’s patients and contribute to a local church Prayer Shawl group with crocheted shawls.
Bernedena was a loving and kind person who loved nothing more than to sip a strong cup of coffee and spend time with her daughter and granddaughters. She tried to always live her life by the words of her favorite quote: “One of the deep secrets of life is that all that is really worth the doing is what we do for others.” – Lewis Carroll.
We ask anyone that wishes to participate, to donate to the Siteman Cancer Center in her memory.
Per Bernedena’s wishes there will be no public service. Instead, her family will hold a private celebration of life. Any friends who would like to share a memory or leave a note for the family can do so using the message system provided by Kurrus Funeral Home.
7 Comments
RIP, dear friend & fellow quilter.. Bernie came to New Athens & quilted with us, St. John UCC Quilters. She was such an important part of our group & will be missed, as much as a dear, dear friend as her quilting talents. Our deepest sympathy to Bernie’s family.
Ruth Ann Hanft, St. John UCC Quilter
Thank you for the kind words. My mom was amazing and I miss her so much
Bernie was one of the nicest people I ever met at Peabody. While we were never in the same department, I was in several training classes with her. What a great person.
I had the pleasure of working with Bernie for many years at Peabody. She was a wonderful person. I am so sorry to hear of her passing and want to extend my sincere condolences to her family.
My deepest condolences to Darlene, Melissa, Melody and all her loved ones. I’m so sorry for your loss, what a loving woman…..I can’t imagine a better legacy.
Bernie was a caring quilter and we really enjoyed her company and talents. She will be missed dearly. So glad talked to her a few weeks ago. Sympathy to all, may you have many memories in your heart forever❤️Diane. St . John’s Quilter
Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Bernie. I am a member of the Prayer Shawl Ministry at St. Augustine of Canterbury Church in Belleville and it was my pleasure to know Bernie and considered her a good friend. She was a lovely, caring person and she will be greatly missed. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely, Mary Phelps