Bernadine "Bernie" Grace Ribblett

Bernie was born on Sept. 21, 1923 in Johnstown, PA, to Jacob J. Mapes and Candace W Mapes. She graduated from Johnstown High School and enjoyed attending her High School Reunions for many years, the last one being her 60th!

She was married to the love her life, Melvin G. Ribblett on Jan. 27, 1947 in Pennsylvania. They later moved to Arizona and made the desert their home for over 60 years. They would have celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary this year.

Faith was a keystone of Bernie’s life and she and her husband were active members of American Evangelical Lutheran Church for many years. Her granddaughter, Lanette called her a “Prayer Warrior”, as she was always thinking of others and sending heartfelt prayers.

They were also members of several square dancing groups throughout the years, where they built many long lasting friendships. Bernie was still meeting up with her “lunch bunch” regularly up until the COVID-19 quarantine restrictions went into place in spring 2020.

She was known in the valley for her love of dolls and teddy bears - Winnie the Pooh being one of her favorites. She even did a “call” during square dance called “Teddy Bear”, with a teddy bear in hand, of course.

Bernie was a talented seamstress. She made doll clothes, hand-stitched teddy bears, created costumes for her square dance events, and Halloween costumes for her grandkids. She even made the prom dress for one of her granddaughters in 1997.

Bernie was a “Red Hatter” - a member of the Red Hat Society, of which she created her own chapter group and was the “Queen Bee”. Many of her friends say she was known for her genuine love, kindness and hugs.

She is survived by her daughter Pam, son Tim; her grandchildren Lanette, Karie, Martin, Jacob, Ryan, Ashley; her great grandchildren Miles, Kellie, Amber, Zachary, Max and Quinn, and her great-great grandchildren Josie, Itzelly and Gio.

She is preceded in death by her husband Melvin G. Ribblett (Oct. 9, 2010) and her son Gregory Allan Ribblett (July 27, 1987).

Visitation is open to the public on Tuesday, Feb. 9th from 4-8 pm. Masks are required.

The Service will be presided by Officiant Pastor Charles Wilfong on Wednesday Feb. 10th at 10 am | Graveside at 11am

Attendance is limited. Please reach out to granddaughter, Lanette via [email protected] to make arrangements to attend.

Thank you each and everyone for all your love and support.

“If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart. I'll stay there forever.”

― from “Winnie the Pooh” by A.A. Milne