Bernita Hoelting

Bernita Hoelting, 72, was born on September 18, 1953, and passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Bernita was born to Ray and Martha Schulte and grew up grounded in faith, creativity, and hard work-values that shaped every part of her life. She married her husband, Bill Hoelting, on September 2, 1972, and began their life together in Nazareth, Texas. They lived in Lubbock and Odessa before settling in Nazareth in 1984.

During their time in Odessa, Bernita helped start the Mother's Club at St Mary's Catholic Church. Through this group, Bernita was able to connect with other mothers with young children, many of whom remain her dearest friends.

Musically gifted, Bernita was a self-taught guitarist who found great joy in sharing her talent with others, teaching many to play and sing. Through them, her music continues to live on. She was the founder and director of the Faithful Friends children's choir, where her passion for music and children came together. Through her leadership and creativity, she brought numerous children's musicals to life, leaving a lasting impact on generations of young performers and their families.

Bernita was also remarkably creative with her hands. A talented seamstress, she could sew anything from men's three-piece suits to elegant prom dresses, often beginning from nothing more than a simple sketch. She lovingly made matching outfits for her daughters and even sewed outfits for their baby dolls-each stitch a reflection of her care and imagination. Ever resourceful, she enjoyed painting and wallpapering, transforming her home several times throughout the years. She also did beautiful crochet work, creating treasured handmade pieces for those she loved.

After raising her children, Bernita continued to share her love of music by teaching at St. Mary's Cathedral School in Amarillo, Texas, where she faithfully and enthusiastically inspired her students and coworkers.

Above all, Bernita was a wife, mother, and grandmother. She treasured her six grandsons and one granddaughter: Mick Kern, Maggie Kern, Mason Kleman (and wife Mardi), Garrison Kleman, Landry Kleman, Will Armstrong, and Ryan Armstrong. She delighted in time spent with them and supported each of them with unconditional love.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Hoelting of Nazareth, TX; her children Marcia Hoelting Kern and husband Bob of Lubbock, TX, Ashley Kleman and husband Brad of Nazareth, TX, and Courtney Armstrong and husband Jack of Lubbock, TX; and her beloved grandchildren.

Bernita was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Martha Schulte; her brothers Howard, Wayne, Leon, and Olen Schulte; and her sister Raelene Hoelting.

A Vigil Service will be held December 21, 2025, at 6:00. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated December 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Nazareth, Texas.

Bernita will be remembered for her creativity, independence, and the love she poured into her music and students. Her legacy lives on in the songs she taught, the garments she created, and the countless lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bernita may be made to the Craig Hospital Foundation, PO Box 17671, Denver, Colorado 80217-0671.

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