Terry Roy Bernard

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Terry Roy Bernard of Brownsville, Texas, on November 29, 2024, at the age of 66, surrounded by his loving family, at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.

A chapel service for Terry will be held Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM followed by a visitation from 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM in Chapel of Peace, at Funeraria del Angel Buena Vista, 125 Mcdavitt Blvd, Brownsville, Texas 78521. All friends and family are welcome. Coffee, water, and refreshments will be served.

Terry was born on June 2, 1958, in Brownsville, Texas. His childhood in Brownsville fostered a lifelong passion for fishing, hunting, and trips to the beach. He was a proud percussionist and bass drum player for the Golden Eagle Band and graduated from Hanna High School in 1978. After graduation, Terry enlisted in the United States Navy and was briefly stationed in Sardinia, Italy. He was honorably discharged in 1981 but continued to serve as a United States Naval Reserve member for an additional ten years. Terry was a jack of all trades. From a young age, his father taught him electrical, woodworking, and general handyman skills. Terry utilized these skills throughout his life and often shared his knowledge with anyone who wanted to learn. His willingness to impart wisdom to those who sought it without complaint or hesitation truly reflects his generous nature.

Terry took tremendous pride in being a hardworking, dedicated father to his two sons. He was an incredibly active and involved parent, proudly volunteering his time as PTA, Athletic Booster, and Band Booster President. His efforts were crucial in ensuring his boys' success. Both sons are Texas A&M University graduates, which made Terry a proud, lifelong Aggie fan!

Second only to the deep love he felt as a father was the immense joy Terry experienced in becoming a grandfather. From the moment he met Maddy and "Bubba" ten years ago, they held a special place in his heart as his beloved grandchildren. He devoted himself to cheering them on at their events and celebrating their achievements. He even took the time to teach them how to fish, creating lasting memories together. The birth of Vivian Grace in May 2022 brought him incredible happiness; his heart overflowed with love and pride. He showered her with endless affection and cherished (and documented) every moment they shared. Although he may no longer be with us, we find comfort in knowing that his grandchildren will always carry him in their hearts, forever as their Guardian Angel.

After retiring in 2021, Terry found happiness in helping friends and family complete odd jobs, engaging in good conversation, traveling, taking his Jeep to the beach, and fishing—but only after having his refried bean tacos for breakfast first! He especially looked forward to his daily breakfast dates with his big sister, Debra. He also loved spending time with his faithful companion, "Red", whom he now leaves in Debra's loving care.

To know our Dad was to truly love him. His kindness and generosity created lasting connections with everyone he met. It’s heartbreaking to think that he’s no longer with us, but his spirit will continue to inspire us through the many lives he has touched. Every smile, handshake, hug, kind word, and thoughtful gesture he shared will forever resonate in our hearts. The wealth of knowledge he imparted has left an indelible mark, reminding us of the beautiful legacy he built and one that will continue to guide us as we navigate our own journeys. Our Dad's impact on our lives and the lives of those who loved him is immeasurable. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in each of us.

Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Jason Roy Bernard (wife, Vanessa) of Pinehurst, TX, and Daniel Roy Bernard of Conroe, TX; sisters, Debra Bernard and Cynthia Castro of Brownsville, TX, and Diana Laura Castro Vargas (husband, Jesse) of Chesapeake, VA; grandchildren, Madeline Love, Zian Xavier "Bubba", and Vivian Grace; and uncles, aunts, and many devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Manuel L. Castro, Jr.; mother, Josefa F. Lopez; son, Dylan Roy Bernard; brother, Harold Joseph Bernard, Jr.; sisters, Belinda "Dino" L. Castro and Graciela "Gracie" Castro.

In lieu of flowers, financial contributions in memory of Terry Roy Bernard can be made to VFW Post #2035, 1801 Veterans Blvd., Brownsville, Texas 78521.

In addition, the family would like to express our deepest gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at San Antonio Methodist Hospital who went above and beyond to care for our father during this difficult time.