Bernice Veckerelli

She is predeceased by her husband of 51 years, Joseph Charles Veckerelli (1933-2009), and her brother, James Maynard (1939-1998). She is survived by her five sons, Paul, John and his wife Lauri, David and his wife Barbara, Mark, and Joseph Jr. and his wife Roisin

Bernice adored her grandchildren, Laura Anne and her husband Trevor, Luc, Louisa, Isabella, Julian, Joseph, and Patrick; She had recently become a great-grandmother to Clara, with whom she had already fallen in love.

Born on March 13, 1936, to Bernadette (Coblenz) and Alpherie Maynard of Lisbon, Bernice graduated from The College of New Rochelle in 1958. While still raising her sons, she enrolled in the culinary arts program at Johnson & Wales, earning a diploma in 1983. She became a professional chef and enjoyed sharing her gifts with her guests, colleagues, friends, and family. Bernice was an avid gardener and was most at peace tending her plants and working the soil. She enjoyed sharing plants with family and neighbors, and many gardens have benefited from her generosity.

Bernice had a sharp wit and a wry sense of humor. She was also a fighter, surviving two bouts of cancer. She was an inspiration to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her, and she will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to two charities that were dear to Bernice:

The Estuary: www.yourestuary.org

The Clinton Food Pantry: www.shorelinesoupkitchens.org