Teresa Bernal, age 92, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, strength, and quiet grace. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Teresa was a proud graduate of the last graduating class (1951) from San Fernando Cathedral High School. There were ten ladies in her graduating class. From singing on the radio station in middle school, being Ashes, the cat in Cinderella in the school play to the energetic drum majorette, she enjoyed life. She began shaping the values of faith, family, and resilience that would define her future.
In 1954, she married the love of her life, Carl H. Bernal. Together, they recently celebrated an extraordinary milestone -71 years of marriage, a testament to their deep bond and lasting partnership. As Carl served his country with distinction during a 40-year military career, Teresa managed the home front with unwavering dedication. Carl’s military took them from San Antonio, to Oklahoma, Alaska, Maryland and El Paso adapting to new places and cultures, always building a warm, stable home wherever duty called.
After Carl’s retirement, Teresa continued her role as a steadfast supporter, assisting him in his active involvement with the Knights of Columbus. She helped with the distribution of over 600 wheelchairs all over Mexico on multiple occasions. She enjoyed being a Greeter at Mass, meeting many of her friends. Her quiet leadership and behind-the-scenes strength never went unnoticed by those closest to her.
Teresa’s greatest joy came from her family. She was the heart of a large and loving family, offering wisdom, laughter, and support across generations. She loved to play games, including Spades, Dominos, Monopoly, and Hand and Foot. On Friday and Saturday nights, Carl and Teresa were often seen at dances with friends and family. They traveled across the United States, Panama, and Europe enjoying the food and culture each place provided. Her presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, seven siblings, Elvira, Elida, Felipe, Luis, Caesar, Mary and Oscar and her son, Carl Edward Bernal. She is survived by her husband of 71 wonderful years, CW4 Carl H. Bernal, US Army (Ret.); children, Victoria Banda and husband, Marco and Michael Bernal and wife, Cathy; grandchildren, Carl Bernal, and Carla (Raul) Dominguez, Anthony, Armando, and Teresa Alicea, Angela and Alexis Banda, Freddie III (Sabrina) and Vincent (Kasey Spier) Trejo, Christopher (Jordan), and Kristen Bernal; great grandchildren, Anthony, Gabriella, Carly, Eva, Miriam, Gabriel, Jameson, Freddie IV, Savannah, Cara, and Charlotte; great-great grandchildren, Daniel, Ellie, Melody, and Rosie; sister, Ida Perez, age 100; as well as, numerous extended family members and others who will miss her dearly.
In honoring Teresa’s life, we celebrate the enduring impact of a woman who gave so much - patiently, lovingly, and faithfully. May she rest in peace.
The family will receive friends at Porter Loring Mortuary North on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 beginning at 6:00 PM. A Rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM. The following morning, Thursday, August 21, 2025, a funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 AM at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, located at 20523 Huebner Rd., San Antonio, TX 78258. Interment will follow in Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.
