Joan Fitzery Bernardo

Joan Fitzery Bernardo, a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away on October 18, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, at the age of 86. Born on February 1, 1939, in Buffalo, New York, Joan's warmth and kindness touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Joan graduated from Immaculata Academy Catholic High School in Hamburg, New York, in 1957. Shortly thereafter she was courted by Donald V. Bernardo, Sr, whom she married in 1962. She devoted her life to raising her two sons, always ensuring they were surrounded by laughter and love. She then worked as a legal assistant at a law firm in Fairfax, Virginia. In her later years, she found great fulfillment in her work with Visiting Angels, where she devoted herself to caring for the elderly. Her clients frequently praised her for her compassion and patience, often referring to her as an angel, a testament to the love she shared and the meaningful connections she fostered through her conversations and care.

Known for her warm personality, Joan was a friend to all whom she met. She greeted everyone with a big smile and a warm hug, leaving a lasting impression on all she encountered. Her vivacity and youthful spirit at 86 years young made her the envy of many, especially among the ladies in her circle.

Joan is survived by her son, Don Bernardo, Jr., and daughter-in-law, Susan Bernardo, along with their children, Nick and Ally. She is also survived by her son, Ken Bernardo, and daughter-in-law, Tracey Bernardo, and their daughters, Lauren and Clara Jane (“CJ”). She is also survived by her brother, Steven Fitzery, and sister-in-law, Bonnie Thompson, as well as her nieces — Jennifer Megan, Hollie Gironda, Shannon Fitzery, and Ryan Byrd — her nephew, Corey Fitzery, and many great-nieces and nephews.

Joan's culinary skills were renowned within her family and among friends. She was particularly famous for her homemade pasta sauce, lasagna, eggplant parmesan, and her grandchildren's favorite dish—chicken and dumplings and pasta salad. Gardening, cooking, and baking were not just hobbies for Joan; they were expressions of her love and creativity, bringing joy to those around her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald V. Bernardo, Sr., beloved parents, Steve and Jean Fitzery, brother, Dennis Fitzery, and sister-in-law, Pamela Priest. Their memories will continue to live on in the hearts of those they leave behind.

The legacy of Joan Fitzery Bernardo is one of love, compassion, and community, and she will be dearly missed by her family and all those who knew and loved her.