ST. CROIX

Bernadette

August 30, 1942 - January 31, 2026

With broken hearts, the family of Bernadette St. Croix (née Bowen), age 83 years, announces her passing on January 31, 2026.

Bernadette St. Croix passed peacefully away at her home after a short but courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

Born on August 30, 1942, in St. Mary’s, NL, Bernadette was the youngest of seven children. She is predeceased by her parents, John and Alice Bowen, and siblings Edmund, Marie, William, Aiden, and Patricia.

Leaving to mourn her husband of 49 years, Fintan; daughter Lynn; son Mark (Kim); grandchildren Isla, Keira, and Ryan; and their mother, Joanne. She is also survived by her sister and best friend, Helen Dobbin of Labrador City; brothers‑in‑law Stan St. Croix (Maureen), Joe St. Croix, and Jim St. Croix (Ruth); sisters‑in‑law Marjorie Molloy, Violet St. Croix and Mary Tobin; along with a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who cherished her deeply. She was a kind, thoughtful, caring, and supportive presence to every member of hers and Fintan’s families, and her absence will be deeply felt.

A woman of creativity and generous spirit, Bernadette found joy in baking, crafting, and especially quilting. The care she brought to her work reflected the way she lived; with patience, generosity, and a deep respect for others. She enriched her community with her kindness, her patience, and the thoughtful way she approached all she did.

Bernadette was a devoted educator whose career spanned many schools and touched countless young lives. Her talent, patience, and unwavering belief in every child’s potential left an imprint that will endure for generations. Her dedication extended far beyond the classroom. Through her long-standing commitment to the Association for Community Living, she brought compassion, advocacy, and tireless energy to improving the lives of people with disabilities. It was within that community that she formed deep and lasting bonds with Michelle Neary, Gene Hickey, Maureen O’Rielly, and Marg Pike — friendships that became cornerstones of her life.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the generosity shown by relatives and friends during Bernadette’s illness. The food, visits, and prayers certainly brought comfort during a difficult time. A special thank‑you to her sister, Helen, and to her nieces, Cyrilla Hillier and Alice Peddle, for their devoted care and the special relationship they shared with Bernadette.

Family will be recieving friends at Stacey's Funeral Home, 60 Roe Avenue, Gander on Thursday February 5, 2026 between the hours of 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. Funeral Mass will take place on Friday February 6, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. from St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church officated by Father William Hearn with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery. 

As expressions of sympathy, flowers are graciously accepted or donations in memory of Bernadette may be made to St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Parish in Gander or to a charity of one’s choice.

Her family will forever remember her kindness, her strength, and the unwavering love that made her their foundation, their comfort, and their greatest supporter.