Bernice Ann Stephenson

Bernice Ann Stephenson (1935-2023)

Bernice Ann Stephenson, 88, passed away peacefully in her cherished hometown of Akron, Ohio.

Born November 29, 1935 in Barnesboro, Pennsylvania, Bernice was the beloved wife to the love of her life, Dean Lavern Stephenson, with whom she is now excitedly reunited. She was the daughter of the late George Lecorchick and Mary Kolar, and the eldest sibling to her late brother Fran. She is survived by her sister Dorothy and brother Pat.

A loving mother, Bernice is survived by three of her children: Bob (Cristy), Nancy (Tim), and Glenn. She is now joyfully reunited with her baby girl Bethany, and beloved son, Dean. Bernice was also a proud grandmother to John, Matthew (Brenna), Danny (Christina), Ben (Amber), Kelly (Perry), Curtis (Victoria), Caitlin (Ranesh), Lauren (Nathan), and Erin (Andrew). She took great delight in being a great-grandmother to David, Anna, Charlie, Sammy, Wyatt, Mia, Isla, Khiara, and Maisie.

Bernice and Dean married on May 14, 1955, and were inseparable ever since. Together, they created a beautiful life and home filled with joy and togetherness. Over time, their home on Nevin Street became a sanctuary of warmth and open-hearted hospitality for many: an open door and pot of coffee ready to welcome at any hour. Bernice matched Dean stride-for-stride in gentleness & kindness; together, they were the ultimate comfort-always exactly what you needed.

She fulfilled too many roles to count: Christ-follower, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, Sunday school teacher, seamstress, piano player, singer, friend, gardener, bookkeeper, writer, listening ear, lover of musicals-etc. etc. etc.

Her faith was central to her life, and as a devout member of Cornerstone Church and the Free Methodist Church, Bernice was deeply involved in ministry, always willing to help. She prayed fervently, and often reminded her grandchildren, that even at a young age that she was praying for their future partners-a prayer that she saw to fruition.

Bernice was vibrant. A master of genealogy, she took great pride in her Slovakian heritage. She often delighted family and friends with tales from "old country" family gatherings, playfully recounting her childhood antics- like sneaking sips of whiskey from the table-with a glint in her eye. Full of spunk and surprises, her adventurous spirit was evident in her high school yearbook photo, where her ambition read: "to join the 11th Airborne Division, and learn to make a parachute jump." This spirit reflected Bernice's approach to life, embracing every situation with courage and enthusiasm.

Beautiful through-and-through, she had the unique ability to spontaneously break out into highly contagious giggle-fits. She was the embodiment of festive cheer, especially during holidays, and was known for her role as an expert Thanksgiving meal chef, prolific Christmas cookie baker, eggnog maker, and stocking stuffer.

She deserved the world, and she received it in the form of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom she adored with her whole heart, and was their biggest supporter.

As she enters heaven, we celebrate a life of unwavering love, a spirit of giving, and a heart that was open to all. Bernice was the light in every room, and her warmth, love, kindness, and comfort will continue on in the hearts of all those who loved her.




Arrangements
Calling Hours will take place Saturday, December 16 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Cornerstone Church followed by a Memorial Service. (2445 S. Arlington Rd, Akron, OH 44319)
Gifts: In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to be made in Bernice's name to Cornerstone Church (2445 S. Arlington Rd, Akron, OH 44319) or to a mission of one's choosing.


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