Catherine Elizabeth Bernard

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing on May 22, 2026 of the matriarch of our family, our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and auntie Catherine Elizabeth Bernard (nee Sylliboy). Born in Whycocomagh on June 10, 1936 to the late Noel Sylliboy and Rose Sylliboy (MacLean).

Catherine was the last surviving member of her immediate family and a Residential School survivor. Besides her parents and siblings, she was also predeceased by her husband John James Bernard, son Matthew (in infancy), grandson Michael Woods, granddaughters Shara Lynn Bernard and Ashley Rose Doucette, niece Jessie Bernard, son-in-law Stephen Denny Paul, godson Leonard "Budgie" Marshall and recently deceased grandson Justin Dennis "Potz".

Catherine was a woman of great faith and tried to pass that on to her children and grandchildren. She was the family matriarch and a true homemaker. She always had a hot home-cooked meal ready for her kids when they got home. She cared for her family, her home and their needs (both great and small). She enjoyed knitting, singing and cooking. In her later years she looked forward to going into town for a Tim's run with her daughter Elaine.

Catherine is survived and will be missed by her children Rose Marie, James "Buddo" (Marie), Karen Ann, Elizabeth Marie, Debbie Jean, John Joseph, Arlene Rose, Elaine Joyce, Brian Matthew (Joan), Elton Sean and Blaise, many grandchildren, great grandchildren and also a number of great great grandchildren.

Visitation will take place at the Gabriel Centre in Eskasoni, starting at 7pm on Thursday, June 4th and continuing up until the funeral mass which will be held at the Holy Family Catholic Church in Eskasoni starting at 10am on Saturday, June 6th with Fr. Antolin Asor officiating. Interment in the parish cemetery and Salité will take place immediately following the Mass. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family by visiting twcurry.com.