Katherine Aileen Stern

Katherine Aileen Stern “Sissy,” born on May 24, 1936, in Buffalo, New York, entered eternal rest on September 22, 2026, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of family, love, and memories that will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.

Katherine was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her family was an important part of her life, and she leaves behind generations who will carry her memory in their hearts.

Another of Katherine’s greatest joys was serving and connecting with the Watkinsville and Oconee County community. Since 2007, she worked alongside her daughter, Rachel, at Rachel’s Southern Style Restaurant, where she became a familiar and beloved face to many. She treasured the friendships she formed, the conversations shared, and the opportunity to be part of a community that meant so much to her.

She is survived by her children, Laurie Lesniak (Clay) Leonard, Kathleen (Anthony) Reyes, Jeffrey (Teri) Wynia, Larry (Devena) Wynia, Keith Wynia, Rachel (Danny) Myers, and her stepson, Jeffrey (Donna) Stern; her 16 grandchildren; and her 23 great-grandchildren.

Katherine is also survived by her siblings, Timothy (Joan) Goodrich, Maureen (Gerald) Barry, and Sean (Deborah) Goodrich, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Simon and Katherine Goodrich; her husband, Raymond Stern; her siblings, Mary Rose Kanick and Robert Goodrich; her grandson, Russell Wynia; and her companion, Mr. John Mann.

While Katherine’s passing leaves an immeasurable absence in the hearts of those who loved her, her life will be remembered through the family she helped build, the stories shared about her, and the memories that will be treasured for generations. Those who knew and loved Katherine will remember her in their own special ways, and her presence will forever remain a part of the family she leaves behind.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Katherine on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Bernstein Funeral Home, 3195 Atlanta Highway, Athens, Georgia 30606.

A graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Oconee Memorial Park, 2370 Hog Mountain Road, Watkinsville, Georgia 30677.

There, Katherine will be laid to rest, reunited with her beloved husband, Raymond, in eternal rest.

May her memory continue to bring comfort, love, and strength to all who knew her.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.