Bernice Mary Gunkel

Bernice Mary Gunkel, age 74, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, 2026, in Plano, Texas. She was born on July 15, 1951, in Belize City to Fued and Alice Bedran and was raised in Jacksonville, Florida. As the eldest sibling in a family of five brothers, Bernice learned early the values of strength, responsibility, and steadfast love—qualities that would shape her life and the way she cared for others. Bernice shared 49 devoted years of marriage with her beloved husband, Ronald George Gunkel (1948–2019). Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, laughter, and deep companionship. From their marriage came two sons, Shane Matthew Gunkel and Aaron Fued Gunkel, whom Bernice loved fiercely and supported wholeheartedly. She was a proud and joyful grandmother to Gavin, Trent, Drew, and Mary Gunkel, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

A faithful Catholic, Bernice was a longtime parishioner of Holy Cross Catholic Church. Her devotion to Divine Mercy guided her life and her relationships. Her faith was lived quietly and sincerely—through trust in God, generosity toward others, and an unwavering commitment to her family. Professionally, Bernice worked for ten years as a Credit Manager at People’s Trust Bank (JCPenney), where she was known for her integrity, intelligence, and diligence. She passed along these same values to her family, along with lessons on stewardship, loyalty, and always putting family first. Bernice delighted in life’s simple and joyful pleasures. She loved traveling with Ron, playing card games she somehow always managed to win, dancing, mastering the hula hoop, and relaxing with her favorite Korean television shows. She especially enjoyed Korean pop music, with BTS holding a special place in her heart. Above all else, she cherished time with her family. Those who knew Bernice will remember her infectious laugh, her radiant joy for life, and her remarkable hospitality. Many described time in her home as “a home away from home”—a compliment once given to her mother, Alice, and one Bernice carried forward with pride. She expressed her love through thoughtful gifts, acts of service, and a presence that could always be relied upon, in both joyful and difficult seasons.

Bernice is survived by her two sons; her four grandchildren; and her three brothers and sister in law, Fued Bedran Jr., Alex Bedran,Albert Bedra, and Wendy Bedran. She is also lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who mourn her passing. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ron, and her brothers Joe Bedran and Salim Bedran. Bernice leaves behind a legacy of selflessness, loyalty, strength, and love lived boldly. Gentle yet fierce, she was a woman whose tenderness matched her resolve. She loved deeply, lived fully, and leaves a joy that will continue to echo in the lives of all who were blessed to know her.

A celebration of the life (viewing) of Bernice Gunkel will be held on Friday, January 23, at 5-7 PM at Hardage - Giddens Riverside Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, Florida. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Matthews Catholic Church, 1773 Blanding Blvd, Jacksonville Florida 32210 at 9:30AM, January 24 2026 with burial to follow at Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery, 7242 Normandy Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32205.