Anne E. Bernard, a life-long learner and educator, passed away in Tewksbury on Sunday May 23, 2021 surrounded by her loving family.
Anne was born in Lynn, MA on March 13, 1935, the daughter of the late Gilbert and Evelyn (Brown) Bernard. She was raised in North Berwick, ME and Wakefield, MA. Anne was a graduate of Wakefield High School and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Boston University and a Master’s degree from Boston College. Later in life she earned a PhD in Romance Languages from Boston College. Many have said she never lost her true love of learning.
Anne became a Spanish teacher at Holliston High School in 1961, and taught there for three years, before answering President John F. Kennedy’s call to “do something for your country. . . “, and enthusiastically joined the newly formed Peace Corps. She served for two years in Mexico and Columbia, helping to bring educational television to under developed cities. She ultimately returned to Holliston High School where she worked for 33 years, retiring as an assistant principal. Many former students considered “Miss Bernard” to be much more than a teacher. She was a mentor and advisor to many, always finding time to listen to a student’s needs. Even in retirement, many students stayed in touch with Anne and visited her at her homes in Maine and Florida. Anne led multiple Spanish class trips to Spain over the years and many former pupils still recount the amazing adventures they enjoyed under her leadership.
Anne was a voracious reader, an avid gardener and a fanatical fan of both the Boston Red Sox and Tom Brady’s New England Patriots. She was delighted in the latter stages of her life, to have been able to see their ten combined championships.
Anne is survived by her life partner Bob O’Regan of Bonita Springs, FL. She also leaves behind her sister Audrey Trull of Tewksbury and her brother Ed Bernard, and his wife Deb, of Knoxville, TN. Anne had a niece and three nephews; Lauren Hirel; and her husband Patrice; of Deerfield Beach, FL; David Trull of Groveland; William Trull; and his wife Deborah; of Lowell; and Roy Trull; and his wife Cynthia, of Tewksbury. She also had five grand-nieces and three grand-nephews. Anne was pre-deceased by her loving aunt and uncle, Ruth and Vincent Camuso and her brother-in-law; H. Bailey Trull, Jr.
Family and friends will be received Saturday, May 29, from 10-11 a.m. at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee St., Tewksbury, immediately followed by a service of remembrance to be held at the funeral home. At the request of her family, please Omit Flowers. Donations honoring her memory may be made to the Holliston Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box 6786, Holliston, MA 01746.
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