Bernice G. Edman

Bernice G. Edman, age 97, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, passed away on November 15, 2025.

Born August 1, 1928, in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Olga (Cooper) Gutnick.

She was happily married to Peter Edman for nearly 69 years, until his passing.

Bernice will always be remembered not only as a loving mother, grandmother, and dear friend to many, but as the woman "who should have been on Broadway". Although she was a professional nurse by trade and a dedicated volunteer in various community organizations in New York, most will remember her for her remarkable singing and acting abilities – and her infectious laugh. She was everyone's best audience. Bernice performed on community theater stages and at multiple venues for over 60 years, delighting audiences throughout New York's Hudson Valley and in Virginia. In 1991, she and Peter were recipients of the Dutchess County Executive's Award for their continuous contribution to the arts. They also loved to travel the world, attending theater, ballet and opera performances wherever they landed. Bernice particularly relished seeing her children and grandchildren perform on stage, in various orchestras, and on soccer fields in their hometowns.

Bernice was predeceased by her beloved son, Randy Edman, M.D.; parents, Olga and Joseph Gutnick; brother Murray Gutnick, and several in-laws.

She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Virginia "Ginger" Edman of Glastonbury, CT; her son, Neal Edman (Janice Grigsby) of New Castle, PA; Grandchildren, Jeremy (Maria) Edman of NYC; Lauren Edman (Scott Smitelli) of Durham, NC; Rachel (Zachery) Beatty of Pittsburgh, PA; Carly Edman of Pittsburgh, PA; great-grandchild, Regan Edman of NYC; and several nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to Dr. Magda, and the staff members at Jameson Place, UILS, and Gentiva Hospice.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no visitation or services. A private memorial will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice, to County Players, Inc. in Wappingers Falls, NY, or to The New Castle Playhouse in Pennsylvania, by visiting their websites. Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.