Bernice Edwards

M. Bernice Edwards, 92 of Pontiac, Ill., died Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2018 at 7:55 p.m. at Tjardes Health Care Center at Evenglow Lodge, surrounded by her family.

Her funeral will be held on Monday Jan. 15, 2018 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Pontiac, with Fr. David Sabel officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, rural Pontiac. A visitation will be held on Monday from 9 a.m. until the hour of services at the church. Memorials in Bernice’s name may be made to St. Mary’s Church. Calvert & Martin Funeral Home, Pontiac is handling the arrangements.

Bernice was born on July 24, 1925 in Pontiac, a daughter of Joseph “Earl” and Eileen (Powell) Gschwendtner. She married Everett Edwards on Oct. 11, 1944 in Pontiac. He preceded her in death April 5, 1997. Survivors include: two daughters: Susan (Victor III) Johns of Saunemin, Ill. and Donna Edwards of Bloomington, Ill.; two grandchildren: Victor (Tammy) Johns IV of Pontiac, Ill. and Leslie (Scott) Showalter of Glasford, Ill.: six great grandchildren: Jordan, Samantha and Victor Johns V, Caleb, Isaac and Abby Showalter; two sisters: Gladys Knudson and Kay (Louie) Lyons both of Pontiac. Bernice was preceded in death by one son: Roger Edwards; two brothers: Alan and Denis Gschwendtner, and one sister: Jo Schultz.

Bernice was educated in the Little Brick Schoolhouse and Pontiac High School. She was employed at Splear Photography Studio in Pontiac prior to her marriage. Bernice was a member of St. Mary’s Church, Pontiac and the Women’s Guild and Daughters of Isabella of the church. She was also a member of Owego Women’s Club and Cosmo and Rodo Dance clubs. She and Everett enjoyed wintering in New Port Richey, Fla. and spending time at Shafer Lake in Indiana where she was known as the “Cookie Lady.” She was well known around here for her homemade noodles and peanut butter squares.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to the family at calvertmemorial.com.