Bernice Pinghera

Bernice M. Pinghera passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on December 19, 2025. She was 99 years old.
Bernice was born on January 28, 1926, in Brooklyn, New York, to John and Anita Turi. It was there that her lifelong love story began. While in high school, a young man named Ralph asked Bernice for a pencil during art class-an ordinary moment that sparked an extraordinary life together. When Ralph was drafted during World War II, Bernice faithfully waited for him while he served his country overseas. For three years, they wrote letters to one another, and Bernice saved every single one-a testament to the devotion that defined their marriage.
Bernice and Ralph were married on September 21, 1946, and shared 75 beautiful years together. When Ralph passed away in 2021, Bernice was by his side, just as she had been throughout their lives. Their love was steady, enduring, and deeply inspiring to all who knew them.
Bernice was an exceptional cook, and her kitchen was the heart of her home. Holidays, family dinners, and any gathering became special simply because she was hosting. She showed her love through food, hospitality, and bringing people together. She also loved to travel with Ralph, family, and friends, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
Nothing brought Bernice more joy than time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. From competitive Monopoly tournaments to lively card games, she was always ready to play-and to win. Bernice was an avid golfer with multiple hole-in-one trophies and Senior Olympic medals. She was fiercely competitive, full of determination, and proud of every accomplishment.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, and her beloved husband, Ralph. She is survived by her son, Ralph Pinghera; her daughter, Susan Pinghera Wardlow; her three grandchildren, Michelle (Dan) Itken, Joe (Maile) Migliore, and Anthony Simpkins; and her four great-grandchildren, Jonathan Itken, Adriana Migliore, Dominic Migliore, and Kate Itken. She was also dearly loved by many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, bus drivers, and staff at the Senior Resource Center Adult Day Center, who loved and cared for Bernice over the past four years. Special thanks are also given to the VNA Hospice Team-Krystal, Shannon, Francine & all the other kind people we met-for their compassion, dignity, and support in allowing Bernice to remain at home, surrounded by family, during her final days.
Bernice will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. While our hearts ache, we take comfort in knowing she is finally reunited with Ralph-together again, just as they always wished.
Cremation rights have been accorded by Yates Funeral Home, and no services will be held.