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Bernard Masters Obituary
Bernard "Bernie" Masters, 86, passed away March 2, 2019, at the Bailey Family Center for Caring.
He is preceded in death by his son, Ronald Allen Master, Sept. 21, 1956.
He is survived by his wife, Helen; daughter Cheryl (Steve) Thigpen; sons, David and Paul (Gwynne) Masters; grandchildren, Ashley Kent and Jennifer Schanke; and seven great-grandchildren.
Born and raised in St. Augustine, Bernie graduated from Ketterlinus High School in 1950. His higher education was at the University of Florida, Jacksonville University and North Florida University.
He entered the US Navy in 1953 as an aviation electronic technician. He met and married Helen Louise (Ferry) Masters while in the Navy in Corpus Christi Texas on May 7, 1955. They came back to St. Augustine, and he worked in the family construction business until 1970.
He was instrumental in setting up the St. Augustine Technical Center. He was the first masonry instructor of the center, and held the job for 3-4 years before becoming the "division Head" of building trades. He retired as the principal of the Putnam Satellite Technical School before retiring in June 1994 with 26 years in the St. Johns County school system.
He was a lifelong member of the Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church and was a Past Exalted Ruler of the Elks BPOE 829. He volunteered at the Church Gardens, Huguenot Cemetery and the Habitat for Humanity.
His passion during retirement was woodworking and enjoying time with his family.
The family would like to give special thanks to Sara Warren and Mary Matthews (Dad's Community Hospice Nurses) and the Bailey Center for their compassion and care. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the staff of the Riverside Cottages at the Shores. Their love and concern was evident, which gave the family comfort knowing that he was in good hands.
A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday at Craig Funeral Home followed by an interment at Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church and a reception at the fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make a donation in his memory to Community Hospice of Northeast Florida - communityhospice.com.
Craig Funeral Home Crematory Memorial Park is in charge of arrangements - craigfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bernard Masters
Sponsored by The St. Augustine Record.
Nancy & John Taylor
April 9, 2019
Helen, Cheryl & Family. John and I send our sincere condolences, as we just learned of Bernie's passing. We are very thankful that a few short months ago, you brought Bernie out for a short visit. He was his cheerful self in spite of his serious illness. John has many fond memories of times with Bernie at the St. Augustine Vocational school. He was a wonderful friend and neighbor. May he Rest in Peace.
Mary Lee Webb-Drake
March 20, 2019
Mrs. Masters, Cheryl and David, I so fondly remember Mr. Masters from Flagler Presbyterian Church when Rev Redding and even Rev Lee were the ministers.
My Mother is Ann Webb and my dad is Howard Webb, I hope you remember them, Mrs. Masters.
I was so saddened when I learned of Mr. Master's passing. I knew he was in hospice and I have been saying prayers for him and for y'all since November.
Cheryl and David - my heart really goes out to you. Losing such an awesome Dad is really hard. Thankfully you have your Mom still. Please know my heart wraps you all in prayer. Take care, Mary Lee
Bill Napier
March 12, 2019
Cheryl , David and the entire family. I am very sorry for your lossYour Dad was a very fine man.
Christine Cothron
March 11, 2019
Bernie was such a gentle but firm leader. He had the ability to gracefully get his point across and lead those around him to be better. His contributions to St Augustine Technical Center, today First Coast Technical College, were very large and appreciated. He continued to support the school throughout his retirement.
My prayers and sympathies go out to Helen and the family as they miss this wonderful man. Rest peacefully, Bernie.
Ione Perry
March 8, 2019
Bernie was a PRINCE of a man-honorable & caring in every way. He stood tall among us & will be missed by all who knew & loved him.
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