Bernice M. Gross

07/22/1934 - 01/17/2026

Bernice M. (Pritchard) Gross, RN, 91, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Walden III Senior Living Community in Wind Gap. Affectionately known by friends and family as Bernie, she was born on July 22, 1934, in Bangor, a daughter of the late Albert D. and Flossie M. (Hocking) Pritchard.
Her journey through life was marked by love, dedication, and service. She was a graduate of Bangor High School, Class of 1952, and furthered her education at St. Luke's Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1955. Her commitment to caring for others was evident in her long and fulfilling career as a school nurse at the Bethlehem Area Vocational Technical High School, where she worked for 16 years.
Bernie's zest for life and adventurous spirit was evident in her many interests and hobbies. She was an avid outdoorswoman who enjoyed camping and fishing, with Bass fishing in Canada being a particular favorite. Her love for travel was insatiable, and she achieved the remarkable feat of visiting all 50 states of the U.S. Bernie's travels also took her abroad, where she performed with her church choir on 2 separate concert tours; first in Germany, and Austria, later, Scotland and England. At home, she found joy in baking, sewing, gardening, and canning. A caring person, her love for animals shone brightly, especially her affection for her three Cairn Terriers, whom she adored taking for walks.
Bernie's musical talents were shared with many through her membership and participation with the Lehigh Valley "Sweet Adelines" chorus, performing a cappella music in the barbershop style. In honor of her profession, she was also a proud member of the St. Luke's Nursing Alumni Association. Most notably, her faith was an integral part of her life both as a former member of First Presbyterian Church, Bethlehem, and now as a current member of Grace Church, Bethlehem. For over 30 years, along with her husband, she remained active singing in the Chancel choir, lifting her voice in praise and worship.
Bernie's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Ronald Gross, with whom she shared 70 years of marriage. Together, they built a family and a legacy that will continue to flourish through their daughters, Sheri A. McMahon of Bethlehem and Lisa S. Gross of Easton; grandson, David R. McMahon (Jaime) and their children, Aidan and Kara and granddaughter, Jenna M. Zuk (Tom) and their children, Christina, and Link; as well as the numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins who will cherish her memory. In addition to her parents, Bernie was predeceased by her sister, Vivian (Pritchard) Pensyl.
Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Schmidt Funeral Home, PC, 407 Belvidere St., Nazareth, PA. Inurnment at Grace Church columbarium, will be private with the immediate family. A Memorial service may be held at a later date.
In lieu of floral tributes to the family, donations may be offered to: Chancel Choir Music Ministry, c/o Grace Church, 4301 Hecktown Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18020
For online expressions of condolence, please visit a Tribute page in honor of Bernice at www.schmidtfuneralhomepc.com