Bernice 'Bea' Alexander

Bernice E. Alexander, 98 years old, passed away on Dec. 2, 2011 in Greenville, SC. Bernice enjoyed a long and productive life and will be remembered by many for her thoughtful, caring and understanding manner. Born on March 4, 1913 in Newark Valley, Bea was a daughter of Ada and Williard Patterson. She was predeceased by her son, Richard, husband, John, brothers, Paul and William Patterson and sister, Sarah Wheeler.Bernice was a graduate of Newark Valley High School, Class of 1931.She was also a graduate of Binghamton General Hospital School of Nursing and was employeed for many years at Riverview Manor Nursing Home in Owego. She was a member of the First Congregational Church of Newark Valley,the Newark Valley Emergency Squad and ONYX Chapter 196, Order of Eastern Star. while residing in Newark Valley. Bea also enjoyed singing and playing the organ. Following her and John's retirement, the couple moved to Cape Carteret,NC where she continued to be active on the emergency squad and various community groups associated with her church and the fire department. Following John's passing, Bernice moved closer to her family and for the past 10 years has resided at an assisted living home. She continued to show her concern for others even there.She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law: James and Susan Alexander, Piedmont, SC and daughter and son-in-law: Joan and Jerry Slater of Albemarle, NC. She will be greatly missed by her 7 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.Graveside services will be held at Hope Cemetery, Newark Valley on Monday, July 2, 2012 at 9:30am.Please share your memories and condolences to the family in Bernice's Guest Book at www.macphersonfh.com