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Marilyn Berns Obituary
Beloved wife, mother, grandmother and retired Santa Ana School District teacher, died of cancer July 22. A memorial funeral service was held August 1 at St. George's Episcopal Church, Laguna Hills. Born in New York City to Jamaican immigrants, raised in the Bronx, Berns and her brother Colin L. Powell, attended public schools. She graduated from Buffalo State Teachers College in 1950 and taught for over 25 years. It was in Buffalo that she met Norm, her husband and partner in life of almost 53 years. Berns was a member of AAUW and a founding member of the Coalition of 100 Black Women of Orange County. She served as member of and keynote speaker for the Guilds of the Orange County Performing Arts Center and was chairwoman of its Madame Helena Modjeska chapter. Berns served on the Board of Governors Philanthropic Foundation for CSUF. In 2005, she received the Southern Orange County Alumnae Pan Hellenic Athena Award for outstanding community service. Her warm smile, quick laugh and optimism inspired everyone. Survivors include treasured husband, Norm, daughters Lisa Berns, Leslie Berns Richman, son-in-law, Adam Richman, grandchildren Camille and Graham, brother Colin L. Powell, a tightly-knit extended family and many dear friends, all of whom were blessed by her love.
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3 Entries
Jacqueline Johnson
March 14, 2020
I remember her as one of the most inspiring people I've ever met. It's been about15 years and I was in my 20th year doing Tri-county Bulletin, making me feel so accomplished and her being so supportive. Her having upfront when Col. Colin Powell, Joint chiefs of staff, landed, exited and saluted, my knees buckled and she brought him over, introduced me as representing the Black Press...OMG.. so Women's Month 2020 I am remembering and recognizing MARILYN POWELL BERNS, with love, prayers and Thanks
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destiny lynch
February 18, 2019
even if im only 12 i really appreciate u and wish you the best in heaven
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