Bernice Chastain

Mary Bernice Chastain, age 99, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2020, at Saint Francis Medical Center. She was born Oct. 4, 1921, to Mayo and Naomi Tilley Strong.

For a short time during World War II, Bernice worked at the Marin County Shipyard and Port at Hueneme Construction Battalion Base, California.

Bernice Chastain

She retired from Southwestern Bell after 37 years of service. Bernice was extremely dedicated. She started at the bottom, working her way up. She received several awards, one for 25 years of perfect attendance.

She was a member of New McKendree United Methodist Church, Fellowship Sunday School Class and Telephone Pioneers. She taught Sunday school class for many years and played the piano often. Bernice enjoyed Pastor Jimmie Corbin's class, the notes from Pastor Charles Buck, and hearing Lead Pastor Bryan Wendling's sermons on the radio broadcast. Bernice had a special appreciation for the cards ministry.

Bernice was especially fond of Mark Ketcher, a dear friend. She often said Mark was the son she never had. He never asked what needed to be done; he just did it! Mark was a first-class compassionate gentleman. Sharon Collins also assisted with Bernice's care. When playing cards, she would refer to Sharon as "The Card Shark." Sharon was a blessing to both Bernice and her niece, June.

Loving survivors include two nieces, June C. Williams of the home and Judy (Ron) Turgeon of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada.

She was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings, Chloree Williams, Gladys O' Ferrell, Dorothy Cox and Linus Strong.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Dr. Flaim and the Saint Francis Medical Center hospital staff.

All arrangements are private.

McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center is entrusted with final arrangements.