Bernard Paul Stennett passed from this life to his heavenly home on October 9, 2021. Bernard was born on October 23, 1926 and was blessed with a long life of almost 95 years.
He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his family and friends. He enjoyed being “Dad” and “Gramps” and a loving husband to his grade school sweetheart, Mona June (Coleman) Stennett, who preceded him in death in 2020.
Left to cherish his memory are children, Nancy (Gary) Etheridge of Albion and Jeffrey Stennett of Springfield, Illinois. Grandchildren; Lance (Stephanie) Etheridge, Les Etheridge and Kevin Etheridge. Great Grandchildren; Tyler (Katelynn) Etheridge, Sydnee (Luke) Berberich, Kaleb Etheridge and Keegan Etheridge. One Great Great Granddaughter; Harper June Berberich. Sister in laws; Esther Presson and Berniece Stennett and several nieces and nephews. Preceding Bernard in death was his wife of nearly 75 years, June. His mother Ethel Stennett Bunting and one brother, Duane Stennett.
Bernard served his country in the U.S. Army and Air Force in 1945-1946. After returning home to Albion, he worked many jobs including Wabash Valley Service Station and International Harvestor. He was a member of Samaria Missionary Baptist Church, serving in many capacities including treasurer, Sunday School teacher and song leader. Bernard enjoyed playing guitar, buying and selling tractors and farm equipment, wood working, building many barn board benches of his own design and also bird houses, along with furniture. He never met a stranger and always had a story to tell. He loved spending time with family and friends and his beloved cats – Tommie and Tessie.
Graveside services with military rites will be held Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at Samaria Cemetery, Northwest of Albion with Bro. Jon McDonald officiating. Friends and family are asked to go directly to the cemetery.
Memorials can be made to Edwards County Senior Citizens, Samaria Cemetery or the Carmi Baptist Children’s Home, and will be accepted by Nale’s Funeral Home of Albion.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at www.nalesfuneralhome.com. Nale’s Funeral Home of Albion is in charge of the arrangements.