Bernadette Melou

Born in Hardricourt, France, Bernadette was the daughter of Nicolas and Marie (Georges) Gouerec. Following her mother’s passing during her early years, she was lovingly raised by her stepmother, Madeleine. In 1969, she married the love of her life, Guy Melou, in Mézy, France.

Bernadette began her career as a secretary in Paris. Shortly after marrying, she and Guy traveled to the United States to visit his sister Anne and brother-in-law Patrick. Enchanted by the country, they decided to make it their home. Despite not knowing English, Bernadette embraced her new life wholeheartedly, learning the language by watching television—I Love Lucy being a particular favorite—and working in French restaurants throughout Washington, D.C.

After the birth of their son, Gregory, the family briefly returned to France in 1977, but their hearts remained in the U.S. They soon moved back and eventually settled in Falls Church, where Bernadette became a beloved fixture in the local restaurant scene. She spent the last two decades of her career at Le Refuge in Alexandria, retiring in 2014.

Bernadette had a deep love for travel and often embarked on road trips, frequently taking visiting family to explore Montreal and Quebec, including various destinations along the East Coast. She was known for preparing unforgettable meals served at beautifully set tables, and took great pride in sharing the culinary traditions of her heritage—from her family's crepe recipe to a Texas-inspired chili she mastered after visiting a friend.

Above all, Bernadette was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her warmth, generosity, and hospitality touched the lives of all who knew her. She welcomed everyone with kindness and created a home full of love.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Guy; her son Gregory and daughter-in-law Mary; and her cherished granddaughter, Sophie. She is also survived by her siblings Nicole (Guy) Auger, Monique (Jean-Pierre) Chemin, Gérard (Charlette) Gouerec, Michel (Jocelyn) Gouerec, Odette Gouerec, and Marie-France (Elie) Laherrère; her sister-in-law Anne (Patrick) Stahl; and many loving nieces and nephews. Bernadette was preceded in death by her parents Nicolas and Marie (Georges) Gouerec, her step-mother Madeleine (Habran) Gouerec, her sister Beatrice (Jean-Jacques) Couesnon, her brothers Bernard Gouerec and Nicolas (Renee) Gouerec.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Murphy Funeral Home, Falls Church, VA 22046.

Bernadette will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.