Karen Ann Bernardo

She was the daughter of Frank M. and Mary B. (Coccia) Bianco; wife of Joseph A. Bernardo Sr. and mother of Joseph A. Bernardo Jr.

Karen had attended North Providence High School where she excelled in various academic pursuits. She also attended the Community College of Rhode Island where she furthered her education in business administration. Karen had worked as an administrative assistant at Bank of America for 27 years. She also worked as a teacher’s assistant at the Little Angels Daycare in Johnston, Rhode Island and as a Demo Event Specialist at BJ’s in South Attleboro, Massachusetts. Karen was a firm believer in God and she exemplified God’s teachings in every aspect of her life. She enjoyed numerous activities during her lifetime including reading, watching movies, playing with her little angel Sofia, spending time with her beloved family and friends, and attending all of her son’s academic and sporting events. It was very easy to identify Karen at these events because she was always the loudest cheerleader on the sidelines, always providing encouragement and helpful advice. Karen inspired many people during her battle with AML leukemia due to her positive attitude and unwavering strength in the face of continued adversity. She touched the lives of every person she met and left a lasting impression on them because of her contagious smile and her warm embrace. Karen will be remembered as a fighter who refused to give up regardless of the odds. Her memory will live on through all the lives she impacted during her time in this world and the cherished stories told by all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will be held Monday, 4-7 p.m. with funeral services on Tuesday at 8 a.m. from the PONTARELLI-MARINO Home, 971 Branch Avenue, Providence. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9 a.m. in St. Anthony Church, 1413 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Providence, followed by burial in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org/donate.