Bernice Lou Griffith

Bernice Lou Griffith, known to her many friends and family as the life of the party the queen of the bar, gave her last toast on September 20, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born in Scottsville, Kentucky, on April 12, 1952, Bernice graced this world with a vibrant spirit that could make even the grumpiest person crack a smile. Graduating from Wood High School in 1970, she embarked on a career that would become a beloved chapter in the community: bartending at the famed 31 Bar for an impressive 25 years, not to mention her stints at Lane Bryant and Jumbo's City Market. For those lucky enough to sit at her bar, they’d know there was no better place to swap stories, enjoy a cold beer, and revel in her infectious laughter.

Bernice's hobbies were as lively as her personality. Whether it was gambling, soaking up sun by the pool or ocean, or simply indulging in good food and family time, she understood the art of living it up! You could often find her settling down after a long day with one of her favorite shows—watching the whimsical antics of Betty Boop, the wholesome charm of the Andy Griffith Show, or the mesmerizing twists of The Twilight Zone, all while keeping her loved ones entertained with her quick wit and unmatched ability to lighten any mood.

Bernice is survived by her two children, Michael Harmeson and Jessi Griffith, who surely inherited her knack for making friends wherever they go. She also leaves behind step-children Bro and Carey Griffith, along with siblings Betty Silcox, Robbie, Ronnie, and Becky Bonds. The apple of her eye, her grandchildren Michael Miles and Brooklyn and Brennen Wilson, brought her immeasurable joy, and she loved bragging about them to anyone who would listen!

Aunt Bernice will also be missed by her cherished nieces and nephews—Cheryl Imel, Denise Ramsey, Robert Bonds, Lisa Yerian, Elisha Dalton and Laura and Jason Bonds —who are blessed to have shared in her laughter and love, not to mention her great stories. She had a special bond with her best friends, Shirley Hoffman and Kathy Gannon, creating some unforgettable memories together, especially during their vacation adventures.

Let’s not forget her ex-husbands, Paul Harmeson and Steve Griffith, who perhaps still chuckle at their wild times with Bernice. She was a force of nature that brought everyone together, a woman who could light up any room with her presence.

Bernice was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bruce and Elsie Alene Bonds, who must be reveling in the stories of their spirited daughter in the great beyond.

Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate Bernice’s fabulous life. Visitation will be held on October 2, 2024, from 4 PM - 7 PM, followed by her funeral service on October 3, 2024, at 10 AM, at the Newcomer Funeral Home located at 925 E Hanna Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46227.

So raise a glass, tell a funny story, and remember Bernice Lou Griffith—the bartender who served life with a splash of humor and a twist of fun!

If you would like to share a memory of Bernice, or a special message with her family, please visit the guestbook below.