Bernadette Tighe

Bernadette Tighe, 82, died on September 16, 2026. Born May 15, 1944, in Denver, Colorado, Bernadette lived a life marked by deep devotion to family, steady faith, and the kind of presence that is remembered with enduring affection. A resident of Sun Lakes, Arizona, she will be missed by all who were fortunate to know her and hold her close.

Bernadette earned a BA in Sociology from Loretto Heights College, an early reflection of a thoughtful spirit and an abiding interest in people and community. Her life’s work was rooted in care and commitment—first as a stay-at-home mother, and later through various positions that benefited families and visitors alike, including work with the Colorado Springs Children’s Museum, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and the Doubletree Hotel.

She was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Bernadette is survived by her husband of 59 years, Joseph Tighe; daughters Sharon Hinsey (Jim Hinsey), Beth Reed (Chris Reed), and Katie Bell (Michael Bell); son Jim Tighe (Brooke Tighe); and ten grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, John S. Murray and Isabel Murray, and her sisters, Ann Plank, Virginia Sullivan, and Marjorie Noonen.

Bernadette’s days were enriched by the simple joys that bring people together: Bridge Club, line dancing, syllacrostic word puzzles, square dancing, and piano. In each of these, her warmth and steady enthusiasm were evident—an ease in companionship and a sincere enjoyment of shared time.

Her faith and service shaped much of her life. Bernadette was involved with St. Steven’s Catholic Church, the Cottonwood Tennis Club, the Bright Lights Trivia Team, the Colorado Springs Song Spinners, and Corpus Christi Catholic Church Women’s Circle. She also served as a Religious Education teacher and volunteered with Meals on Wheels, offering her time in ways that reflected a generous and beloved heart.

Bernadette will be remembered with gratitude and respect, and held in lasting remembrance by her family and by the many communities she touched.