Carol Bernard

Carol Ann Bernard, a devoted mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully in her home on March 15, 2026 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. She was a pillar of strength to all who knew her.

Originally from Jersey City, New Jersey, Carol moved to Long Island when she married Lawrence Bernard, a carefree, warm-hearted man from Middle Village, Queens. There, Carol spent her life creating a home fostering a climate of unconditional love and quiet tenacity. To her children, she was more than a parent; she was a fierce advocate and a woman of beautiful contradictions: a protector with a tender heart. Because she had no poker face, you never had to wonder where you stood with her; her smile could light up a room, her laughter was contagious, and her eyes told the story of exactly how much she cared. She was strong-willed and independent, yet her greatest joy was found in the softest moments- shopping at Bloomies with her daughters, quiet afternoons at the beach, or spending time with her grandchildren (her absolute favorite pastime).

She is survived by her children, Tara Stangarone and Ericka Duran, her wonderful partner, Craig Heller, and a community of family and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Lawrence Bernard.

Carol's legacy lives on in the values of kindness and perseverance she instilled in her family.