Bernice Morris Fairchild, 81, of Beech Grove, Ind., passed away April 14, 2014, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Bernice was born in Taylor County, and was the daughter of Mishie and Thomas Morris. She graduated from Buffalo High School, and married her high school sweetheart and teacher, Hayes Fairchild. They moved to Indiana in 1953, living in Beech Grove throughout their lives, where Hayes taught high school, and Bernice raised their two boys, Thom (Kathy), and John (Karen), of Indianapolis. Harvey, another son, passed away in infancy.
Bernice was an avid runner and walker, and her smile and wave were legendary all over Beech Grove. She ran the Indianapolis Mini-Marathon many times. She held numerous positions in the Beech Grove School system, most notably the secretary of the middle school, and her greetings to generations of Beech Grove children are remembered fondly.
Her greatest delight was caring for her grandchildren, Kimberly Rumer (Justin), Kyle Fairchild, Jack Fairchild and Audrey Fairchild. She spoiled them as royalty over many years, with weekends at Nana's, and holiday celebrations.
She is also survived by her loving sisters, Naomi Sutherland (Donnie), and Frances Gaddie (Bobbie), both of LaRue County.
Bernice will return home to be buried with her husband and son following a graveside ceremony at 11:30 a.m. April 26, 2014, at Buffalo Cemetery.
The family asks that you donate in her memory to the Beech Grove Retired Teachers Scholarship fund, 5334 Hornet Avenue, Beech Grove, Ind., 46107, with information at bgedfoundation.org.
The Fairchild families, Sutherland's, and Gaddie's sincerely thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers. It is evident that Bernice was truly loved, as she loved in return.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Bernice and Mr. Hayes were next door neighbors to my grandparents, Fount & Delzie Moran, for many years. They were good neighbors and fine people. So sorry we didn’t know of her passing at the time.
Jeff Moran
Jeff Moran
Friend
January 28, 2021
I am very sad that I did not know of Bernice's passing; she was always kind to me and my children.The Fairchild relatives in Kentucky did not know about her death until this week. We all thought of her as family. BJ
BJ Fairchild-Newman
December 20, 2014
Bernice and Hayes Fairchild were the heart and soul of Beech Grove schools for years. When I was subbing in the Middle School, she was always there to lend me a helping hand. And as Richard Peak commented, her Kentucky charm and beautiful smile simply melted your heart. The Fairchilds were great friends of the Van Horns and for that I will be forever grateful. Peace to you and your family, Mrs. Fairchild.
Karel Van Horn - Seldner
May 1, 2014
Bernice will be missed by those who knew her. May the God of all comfort provide you with the comfort and peace you need.
M. Pace
April 28, 2014
One of the sweetest Christian ladies I ever had the pleasure of knowing. Hayes has been patiently waiting for her to go fishing. I trust the happy memories of Bernice that Thom, Kathy, & John have will help carry them through their grief.
Brad & Pam Cooper
Bradley Cooper
April 24, 2014
John, we never knew your mom, but we understand how difficult it was for all your family over th e past several years. Our prayers are with you.
Paul and Darcy Canavin
April 19, 2014
Frances, Naomi I am saddened to hear of the death of your sister. I remember fondly she and I riding home on the Greyhound every afternoon many years ago. Peace and comfort to all of you.
Phyllis Hazle
April 18, 2014
To One of the best Sisters anyone could have Love you with all my heart Naomi
April 18, 2014
We Will Miss you deeply.
Your Friends & Family at Brookdale.
April 17, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Helen Kirkham & Family
April 17, 2014
My prayers and sympathy are with you. May she rest in peace.
Sister Louise Hoeing
April 17, 2014
John we love you and will be there for you.. sorry for your loss. You were there for me..Anything we can do..We will be there..God bless you and your family!!
Tasey & Greg
April 16, 2014
Bernice was an outstanding lady and friend. When I first started working at BGMS in 1986 she made this boy from southern Indiana feel right at home. Her beautiful smile and her Kentucky charm would lift anyones spirits. Bernice will truly be missed. I would like to say "Thank You" for being a part of my life!
Richard Peak
April 16, 2014
I so enjoyed knowing Bernice when I was a principal in Beech Grove. She was a great person. I know you will miss her. You have my sympathy.
Raeburn Rathbun
April 16, 2014
Our sincerest condolences. We will keep you all in our prayers. John & Julie Barger
April 16, 2014
We at First Christian Church of Beech Grove, lift our hearts in prayer for Bernice's family - that they may feel God's loving presence and comfort - perhaps through a card, call, or visit from friends. We lift our hearts in prayers of gratitude, knowing that God's healing touch has restored this wonderful Child of God, and she is running and walking, exploring once again!
Pastor Paul Hartig
April 16, 2014
May your family, friends, and God's Word give you the strength you need to carry on.
April 16, 2014
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