Bernard K. Bangley: A Life of Faith, Love, Creativity, and Service

Bernard K. Bangley, a beloved Presbyterian Minister (retired 2000), author, husband and father, passed peacefully on June 21, 2025, at the age of 89. His life was marked by profound faith, a dedication to service, and a remarkable gift for storytelling, writing and spiritual reflection that touched many lives.

Born in Suffolk on Nov. 27, 1935, Bernard felt a calling to ministry early in his life. He earned his bachelor of arts degree From Hampden-Sydney College and master of divinity at Union Theological Seminary, where he nourished his intellectual curiosity and deepened his commitment to his faith.

Following his ordination, he served congregations at Blue Ridge Presbyterian in Ararat, Bethesda Presbyterian in Rockbridge Baths, First Presbyterian Church in Lynchburg, Pine Shores Presbyterian in Sarasota, Fla., and Quaker Memorial Presbyterian in Lynchburg before retiring to Rockbridge County, the place he considered his spiritual home. A cherished figure within the community, he joyfully filled pulpits in the region well into his late 80s.

As a Presbyterian minister, Bernard was known for his well-crafted, often poignant sermons, and his gracious and dignified pastoral care. He guided his congregants through life's joys and sorrows with grace, wisdom, and an unwavering belief in God's love. 

Beyond his ministry, Bernard was an accomplished author. His writings, which often explored themes of faith, spirituality, and the human condition, resonated deeply with readers. He had a gift for modernizing the writings of great Christian mystics for modern readers, reviving the words of Bernard of Clairvaux, Evelyn Underhill, Francis de Sales, and many others, leaving a lasting legacy.

Bernard was an introspective and thoughtful man with a deep love for his wife and children. Widely read, he reveled in a range of hobbies from caving, sculpting and woodworking; to model building, bread baking, gardening, composing and computing.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Anna; three children, Jennifer, Diane and David; daughter-in-law Betsy; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, James H. Bangley; mother, Ethel Modlin Bangley; and brothers James and Robert. 

In accordance with his wishes, a simple graveside service will take place on June 27 at 11 a.m. at the Oak Grove (formerly Stonewall Jackson) Cemetery in Lexington.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to ConnectionsPlus Healthcare + Hospice. https://www.connectionsplus.care/.

Bernard K. Bangley will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former congregants and readers, but his spirit of faith, kindness and service will endure in our hearts and lives.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home and Crematory.