Bernice C. England

Bernice C. (Befort) England passed away on July 15, 2023 at the age of 95 after a courageous battle with cancer. Her husband and best friend of 75 years along with her daughter were by her side when she peacefully passed away.

Born in Hyacinth, Kansas, she was the daughter of the late John Befort and Barbara (Steinbach) Befort. She has resided in New Bedford with her husband for over 75 years.

During her illness, she would often reminisce with her husband, daughter, many relatives and friends about her enjoyment in life which included vacations, bus trips to casinos, time spent at the Acushnet COA Seniors Club and dancing at the Sixth Bristol Club. She often spoke of her enormous gratitude toward her daughter for the dedicated loving care given to her on a daily basis. At the end of every visit with Bernice she would make certain to say, I love you.

She was employed at John I. Paulding Inc. as an assembler for many years until they closed.

She is survived by her husband George Norman England, her daughter Cheryl (Sherry) Baptista, grandson Stephen Baptista and his wife Rebecca Baptista, and their two children Jonathan and Christopher Baptista; grandson Scott Baptista and his daughter Cordiela Frates; also many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by fourteen siblings.

Services will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff at Southcoast VNA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Mrs. England’s name to Southcoast VNA, Attn: Community Affairs, 200 Mill Road, Fairhaven, MA 02719; www.southcoast.org.

Arrangements in the care of Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Boulevard, New Bedford. For online tribute: https://www.dignitymemorial.com