Bernice N. Diggins

NASHUA – Bernice Nora (Rioux) Diggins, 85, a longtime resident of Nashua, died peacefully at her home on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

The daughter of the late Octave and Edna (Lavoie) Rioux, Bernice was known for her kindness and humor. She was a wonderful wife and mother, and a loyal, supportive friend. She had a ready smile and enjoyed spending time with her cherished family.

A graduate of the former St. Louis de Gonzague High School, Bernice married her soulmate Roland Diggins in 1960. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised four daughters. They were blessed to celebrate 64 years together.

After years caring for her children, Bernice entered the workforce. She retired as the Accounts Payable Supervisor for the City of Nashua with over twenty years of dedicated service.

Throughout her journey with AML (Acute Myeloid Leukemia), Bernice displayed incredible courage, hope, and unwavering faith. The family would like to thank Dr. Amir Fathi, his team at Massachusetts General Hospital, and the staff at Lunder 9 and 10 for both their support throughout her illness and, most importantly, the gift of time. Bernice will be lovingly remembered by her family, whose lives are forever enriched by her devotion, strength, and grace.

Bernice will be joining her husband Roland in eternal peace and is survived by her four daughters; Laurie Diggins and her partner Terrance Geenarain; Paula Perlowski and her husband John; Doreen Charron; and Sandra Schoen and her husband Chris. She was the proud grandmother of nine and great grandmother of ten. She is survived by five siblings, Lorraine Rioux; Leonard Rioux and his wife Fleurette; Ronald Rioux and his wife Jane; Gerard Rioux and his wife Joanne; and Richard Rioux. She is predeceased by her brother Sylvio Rioux and his wife Lucille.

There will be a gathering to celebrate the lives of Bernice and Roland on Saturday, September 6th, from 9-12 pm at the Cremation Society of NH, 26 Kinsley Street, Nashua, NH. A Memorial Service will be held at the funeral home following the gathering. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution, can do so through the Mass General Giving Website at www.giving.massgeneral.org/donate/leukemia-treatment-program.