Bernice Friedman

Bernice Friedman, age 95, of Canton, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Bethany Nursing Home, surrounded by her loving family. She passed away on the tenth anniversary of the death of her beloved husband Stanley, her partner in life for 66 years — a moment that feels especially meaningful to those who loved them both.

Bernice was born on January 11, 1931, to David and Hilda (Braunstein) Levinson in Brooklyn, New York, and moved to Canton when she was 14 years old, where she built a life centered around family, community, and lasting friendships.

She was a devoted member of Temple Israel and was actively involved in Temple Israel Sisterhood, where she served as President, as well as in Hadassah. Bernice spent more than 30 years in education, beginning her teaching career as an elementary teacher in the Plain Local School District and later serving as a prescriptive math teacher in the Canton City Schools before retiring.

Bernice was a graduate of Lehman High School, Ohio University, and earned her Master’s Degree in Education from Kent State University.

She loved gathering with friends around the bridge and mahjongg tables and built many cherished friendships over the years. Bernice also had a gift for staying connected — she was always just a phone call away for family or friends who needed advice, support, or simply a caring voice.

Bernice was preceded in death by her beloved husband Stanley in 2016. She is survived by her daughter, Barbara (John) Spera; her son, David (Lingxia) Friedman; her sister, Francine (Irv) Korman; her nieces, Julie and Melanie Korman; her grandchildren, Jodee (Dan) Haber and Andrew Spera; and her great-grandchildren, Max, Henry, Sam, and Spencer, who brought her tremendous pride and joy and who will carry forward her legacy of family, love, and connection for generations to come.

This past January, Bernice celebrated her 95th birthday surrounded by family. She enjoyed every moment of a day filled with laughter, love, and celebration — a memory her family will always cherish.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Temple Israel with Rabbi David Komarovsky officiating. Private family entombment will be in the North Lawn Cemetery Mausoleum.

Memorial donations may be made to the Mission and Vision Fund at Temple Israel.

May her memory be for a blessing.