Bernadette (Bernie) Jankowski, at the age of 87 passed away suddenly on March 5, 2025 She was the beloved wife of the late Michael Jankowski and sons Michael and Robert. She was the daughter of the late Thomas and Kathleen Hoare, and is survived by her brother, David Horan. She was predeceased by her siblings, Thomas, Gertrude, John, Mary, Joseph, and Patricia.
Bernadette is survived by her children, Richard Jankowski and his wife, Marlene, of Plymouth, and Mark Jankowski and his wife, Laura, of Marshfield. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Erika, Richard, Nicole, Matthew, and Robert, as well as great-grandchildren Kyleigh, Raelynn, and Bryson.
A proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Bernadette was deeply devoted to her family. Her fun-loving personality, generous nature, and infectious laughter brought joy to everyone around her. A constant source of support, she always took the time to listen to the stories and thoughts of her family and friends, offering a kind ear whenever needed.
Bernadette spent many cherished summers with her family, bonding over cookouts and her favorite meal, lobster. She especially enjoyed creating memories at the beach with her grandchildren, where her warm laughter could always be heard. Bernadette was known for her hospitality, whether hosting holiday dinners, parties, or cookouts, where her famous potato salad, deviled eggs, and traditional Polish dishes, such as kielbasa, pierogi, and golumpki (stuffed cabbage), were always on the table. Though Irish-American, she embraced Polish culture, learning to cook traditional meals and speak the language, earning the love and respect of the Polish community in South Boston.
In addition to being a loving mother and nana, Bernadette worked for many years at the Gillette razor company in South Boston. She was immensely proud of her work and of raising her sons, always providing a nurturing and loving home. Over the years, she enjoyed visiting and sharing special trips to the Cape with her family and friends. She also loved family boating trips with her husband, Mike.
In her later years, Bernadette enjoyed sitting on the porch of her son's homes, basking in the sunshine, or spending evenings around a campfire in the backyard, reminiscing with family and listening to music. Her favorite was “Sunday Morning Sidewalk” by Johnny Cash, a song she and her late husband enjoyed together.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 12th, from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at Casper Funeral Home, 187 Dorchester Street, South Boston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in Saint Monica’s Church, 331 Old Colony Avenue, South Boston. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Hyde Park.
In lieu of flowers, and in observance of the Lent season, the family kindly requests donations in Bernadette’s memory be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.