Peacefully, surrounded by loving family, on Monday, July 18, 2022, at Bluewater Health, Bernadette Barbara Gray passed away at the age of 72. Beloved wife of Robert Gray. Loving mother of Shana Bond (Tim Gricnik), Michael Bond (Melanie Bond), the late John Bond (Cara Bond), and stepdaughter Patty Helps (Blake Helps). Cherished grandmother of Matthew Bond, Jake McGough, Samantha McGough, Hannah Bond, Thomas Bond, Cooper Bond, Nicholas Bond, the late Avery Bond, and step-grandmother of Jillian Hills (Jake Hills) Kristin Helps, and Curtis Helps (Leah Fraser), and great-grandmother of Penelope Hills. Dear sister of Laura Gyori. Predeceased by her parents Bernard and Estelle Kropp, brother John Kropp, sister-in-law Lina Kropp, and brother-in-law Alex Gyori.
Bernadette spent her life loving, nurturing and caring for people. This journey began at an early age, where she took the lead of assisting her parents in caring for her little brother, sister, and family. She went on to proudly teach at the prestigious St. Mary’s Academy, in Winnipeg, her alma mater, where she soon inspired innovative programs, helping with theatre, and organizing large trips across Canada.
Bernadette continued her successful career in the Ottawa area before moving to Sarnia to teach English at St. Patrick’s High school. She became involved in School Board driven programs while helping to advance new teaching methods and was appointed Vice Principal and later Principal of St. Patrick’s High school. She strongly believed in the value of education and modelling good Christian behaviour by leading through example for her students, parents, and teachers while always having a smile and sympathetic ear for all.
After retiring in 2008, Bernadette and Bob turned their attention to travel, through exploring different destinations and wintering in Florida. She loved to meet new people, cherished the time with her friends and was instrumental in bringing people together. With her social network of friends, she enjoyed entertaining, attending theatre and golfing.
Nothing made her happier and prouder than being with her children and grandchildren. She cherished every moment, milestone and memory that was shared with each of them. The legacy she leaves is the importance of Family above all and living your life to its fullest. Through her grace, generosity, and devotion, she taught us to love life freely, be kind and appreciative of others every day.
She will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved her. Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Sunday, July 24, 2022, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church, 1465 Lecaron Ave, Sarnia, on Monday, July 25, 2022, 10:00 a.m. Cremation to follow. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or St. Vincent De Paul (cheques only at the funeral home please).
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Bernadette Barbara Gray February 21st 1950 July 18th 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Sarnia, Province: Ontario
Bernadette it was an honor and privilege to be your friend. I miss you already. Always up for golf, shopping, a show or a drink with our friends. Your beautiful smile will always be the way I remember you
Love you Flo