Bernardine H. King, 102, of Natural Bridge, peacefully passed away on Oct. 7, 2026, at the home of her daughter. 

Bernardine was born on April 19, 1924, in Kingston, Pa., to Ignatius and Alexandra Hera.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert; two sons, Robert Jr. and Henry Rives; as well as two sisters and two brothers. 

Bernardine graduated PlymouthHigh School class of 1942 and Elizabeth Buxton Hospital School of Nursing, class of 1945.

She was a nurse in the United States Army and served as a first lieutenant. Bernardine married in 1949 and lived a military wife's lifestyle until her husband Bob's retirement in 1963. She resumed her nursing career at Patterson ArmyHospital, Fort Monmouth, N.J., retiring in 1985

Upon Bob's death in 1973, Bernardine enjoyed a life of travel, especially her trips to China, Russia and Australia. Bernardine moved to Lexington in 2014, initially residing at The Mayflower. Due to cognitive decline associated with dementia, she relocated to her daughter's home in 2016. Bernardine passed peacefully at home.

As the first person to hold and welcome her daughter into this world, it was by God's profound grace that her daughter was there to hold her as she peacefully departed it.

Bernardine is survived by her daughter Anne Russek and her husband Steve; her grandson Toby Croll; granddaughter Billie Rae Croll; great-granddaughter Charlie Campbell and great-grandson Oliver Campbell. 

Farewell to thee but not farewell

To all my fondest thoughts of thee 

Within my heart they still shall dwell

And they shall cheer and comfort me. - Emily Dickinson