It is with deep sadness that the family of Mary "Bernice" Richard(s) announce her passing at the age of 97 on January 23, 2022 in Halifax. Born in River Bourgeois, Cape Breton on October 4, 1924 she was the daughter of Martin Pate and Seraphine Sampson. Bernice was the last surviving member of her family having been predeceased by her parents, nine sisters and four brothers. She was also predeceased by her husband of 59 years, Joseph Charles (Charlie) Richard(s). Bernice is survived by her seven children: Charlene (Joe) McSweeney of Halifax, Carson (Stephanie) of Wolfville, Bruce (Marg) of Saskatoon, Blair (Patti) of Halifax, Sheila (Jamie) Maguire of Halifax, Shawn (Erika) of Halifax and Scott (Sara) of Charlotte, North Carolina. "Nanny" will be dearly missed by her 14 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and the countless friends she made in her long life.
Bernice and Charles, both proud Cape Bretoners, met in Halifax and married in 1945. Even with 7 children to raise, their door was always open to anyone in need of a meal or a place to stay (and maybe even a game of cribbage). Mom truly enjoyed her life and the people in it. She will be remembered for her many acts of service, her generous spirit and her strong faith. A devout Roman Catholic, Bernice was a long-serving member of the Children of Mary at Saint Mary’s Cathedral Basilica. She received the Archdiocesan Medal of Merit in recognition of her many years of untiring service to the church. She also served as a Lector and Auxiliary Minister of Communion. In her later years, she was also a valued member of St. Mother Teresa of Kolkata Church.
Our family would like to extend its deepest gratitude to the staff at Caritas Long Term Care Facility where our mother was lovingly cared for since her stroke. Your kindness and compassion did not go unnoticed. Our deepest thanks also to everyone who prayed and continues to pray for Mom. As a woman of great faith, know that your prayers and support were of immense comfort to her as well as to her family.
Due to Covid restrictions, a private service for immediate family only will be held on Monday, January 31, 2022 at 10:00am at St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Very Rev. Craig Cameron and con-celebrated by Fr. Owen Connolly. The funeral service may be viewed online at https://livestream.com/halifaxyarmouth/bernice-richards. At a future date when conditions permit, a celebration of Bernice’s life will be held. As Bernice was a supporter of numerous charities throughout her lifetime, donations in her memory may be made to any charity of your choice. To view or place an online message please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com.
Bernice was a beautiful woman and mother, a bright light, whom we love dearly and will miss tremendously until we meet her again. Your reward awaits you in heaven. Peace be with you Mom.
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