Gerald E. 'Jerry' Bernard

Shrewsbury – Jerry Bernard was the kind of man people simply enjoyed being around—steady, kind, hardworking, and deeply committed to his family and community. A master electrician by trade and a beloved member of the Knights of Columbus by passion, Jerry built a life defined by service, integrity, and genuine friendship.

Gerald Edward Bernard was born August 16, 1942, in Worcester, he was the son of the late Raymond and Regina “Rena” (Tetreault) Bernard. Raised in Shrewsbury, he graduated from Shrewsbury High School with the Class of 1961 before earning his electrician’s certifications, ultimately becoming a licensed Master Electrician. On September 1, 1962, he married fellow Shrewsbury native Susan J. Adams at Saint Mary’s Church, beginning a partnership that would anchor his life.

Jerry owned and operated Bernard Electric in Shrewsbury for many years, earning a reputation for honesty, craftsmanship, and reliability. With Sue managing the office and Jerry working side-by-side with his late son, Jerry Jr., the business became known not just for quality work but for the character of the people behind it. He retired in 2010, proud of the legacy he built.

Jerry died on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Beaumont Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Westborough. He was 83.

Calling Jerry an active member of the Adelphi Council #4181 Knights of Columbus hardly captures the depth of his involvement. A 4th Degree Knight, he served multiple terms as Grand Knight and played a central role in the council’s many charitable efforts, especially those supporting individuals with special needs. Earlier in life, he also gave his time to the community by coaching youth baseball and hockey, sharing his patience and enthusiasm with countless local families.

In addition to his wife of 57 years, Sue (†August 17, 2020) and their son, Gerald E. Bernard, Jr. († September 27, 2007) he was predeceased by his brothers, Raymond H. Bernard and Donald A. Bernard.

He leaves his children Sandra J. Marcello (Matthew) of South Yarmouth, Joseph D. Bernard (Jenn) of Holden, Jennifer A. Smith (Martin) of Sutton, his daughter-in-law, Lisa Bernard of Spencer; grandchildren, Kimberlee & Allyson Bernard, Matthew & Christopher Marcello, Maxwell & Brady Horgan; great grandchilren, AJ & Julia; in-laws, Lois Lowe and Nancy Dupuis (Ed), as well as and many nieces & nephews.

Family and friends will honor Jerry’s life by gathering for a Morning Wake on Thursday, March 19th from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in Saint Anne's Church, 130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, followed by his funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Mountain View Cemetery. 

Members of Adelphi Council #4181 Knights of Columbus will conduct their ritual at 11:20 a.m.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Shrewsbury Special Needs Program Parks & Recreation | 100 Maple Avenue | 2nd Floor | DPW Office | Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street, Waltham.