Bernadine "Bernie" Ousley

Bernadine Ousley, affectionately known as Bernie, was born on September 18, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, to Claudine Black (d.) and George Hayes (d.).

Bernadine graduated from Englewood High School in Chicago and shortly thereafter married Level Stewart. From this union came her first daughter, Teresa. Later, she married Ronald Miniefield, and together they welcomed her second daughter, Veronica. Determined to pursue her passion for education, Bernadine went on to attend Kennedy-King College, where she worked diligently toward her career goals in social services and special education.

Bernie was a devoted mother, grandmother, godmother, sister, and friend. Guided by her faith and renowned for her radiant smile, her positive spirit touched countless lives, making her a haven and source of encouragement to all who knew her.

Bernie was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in her early thirties but never allowed the illness to define her spirit. She was a beautiful, God-fearing woman whose faith sustained her throughout her life. Even in the face of pain, she was a source of light, love, and encouragement to all who knew her.

Bernie peacefully departed this life on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 4:00 AM CST. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her boundless love, and her enduring strength. Her legacy of compassion and resilience will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Claudine Black and George Hayes, and brother, Claude Ousley (2018).

She leaves to cherish her memory her brother, Walter Ousley; daughters, Teresa Adams (m. Charles) and Veronica Veals; stepdaughter, Tonya Jordan (m. George); grandchildren, Devon Kidd (m. Tyannia), Camron Veals, Courtney Veals, Cory Stewart, Tiara Wheeler, Jaron Jordan, Damien Garcia, Kobe Jordan, Keith Crawford, Daja Kelly; and godson, Robert Davis; along with a host of extended family and friends.

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Blackburn Giegerich Sonntag Funeral Home 1500 Black Road Joliet. A memorial celebration will follow at 11:00 a.m. Repast will take place at 12:30 p.m. in the funeral home lounge.

Relatives and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book by logging onto: www.PleseFuneralservices.com.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the genuine care and direction of Kenneth A. Plese, in Joliet, IL 815-735-2125.