Missy was born in Bohemia, Long Island on February 3rd, 1967. She graduated from Connequot High School and continued on to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Sociology at Johnson State College of Vermont. Missy worked as the Production and Volunteer Manager for NC Reading Service (NCRS) for 13 years and had previously worked for Diabetes Management Solutions, Dress for Success Triangle and the Literacy Council of Wake County. Missy married Chris Bernard on April 24th, 1993 and they were married for 33 years. She was a voracious reader and enjoyed hiking with her husband Chris and snuggling on the couch with her dog Milo and a good book. Missy loved making new friends! She loved to hear their stories; the trips they’d taken, their accomplishments and those of their kids and grandkids! Missy touched so many people in so many ways. She loved planning for special events like the NC Reading Service Gala and holiday parties.
Missy is survived by her husband, Chris Bernard; one sister, Genette Bonneville and husband, Mark Bonneville, and one brother, Craig Hollander.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ozzie and Natalie Hollander.
A celebration of life to honor Missy will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27612. A luncheon reception will follow at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the NC Reading Service at the link below under ‘Donations’.
If you would like to leave a favorite memory/story of Missy or a message of condolence for her family, you may do so below, within ‘Add a Memory’.
