She was born on November 28, 1925, in Louisville, KY, to John and Mattie Hawkins. She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, Thomas Joe McNeilly in 2003.
Bernie’s life is celebrated by her three daughters Beverly Compton (Mark Compton), Debbie Weir and Becky McNeilly. Also three grandsons Kevin Compton (Ali Clark), Alan Compton and Jeffrey Weir.
She was a longtime member of Faith Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) who elected her Deacon Emeritus in 2015. She shared her many skills and leadership with her church, as well as her grandsons schools and several Women’s Groups in other local Churches.
In lieu of flowers donations can be offered to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Salvation Army.
A visitation for "Bernie" will be held Wednesday, April 28, 2021 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM.