Bernice Beckner Rexrode of Waynesboro, died at home on July 26, 2022, just two weeks from her 103 ^rd birthday. She was born on a farm in Rockbridge County, the oldest child of Walter and Mary Frances Hart Beckner. Bernice was preceded in death by her sister Mary Frances Gaynor and her brothers William Beckner and Wallace Beckner. She attended Madison College (now JMU) and began her educational career as a home economics teacher in Lee County Virginia.  She met her husband Arval while teaching at a one room schoolhouse in Highland County.  They were married in 1947 and raised five children in Waynesboro: Clifton Rexrode (Oma), David Rexrode (Sharon), Francine R. Johnston, Harvey Rexrode, and Iris R. Birckner (Eric).  Arval and Bernice were married 74 years before he passed away in April 2021.

Bernice continued her career in Augusta County Schools, teaching at Wilson Memorial High School, Stuart's Draft Elementary and finally, for many years, at Ladd Elementary before she retired in 1983. Bernice was a charter member of Westminster Presbyterian church where she served in many roles over the years. She was an excellent seamstress and enjoyed needlework, gardening, and travel.

Bernice was a devoted "Nanny" to her grandchildren and great grandchildren: Casey Rexrode and Alex Leaman and son Drake; David and Katherine Rexrode and children Emma, Abby, and Drew; Amy and Willis Weber and sons Henry, Simon and Theodore; Ben and Emily Rexrode and children Molly and Beck; Brix and Laurel Birckner and children Rex and Mia; and Brandon and Sarah Birckner and children Reese and Bo; and Ellie and Kaitlyn Johnston,

Special thanks go to her son Harvey and to Cathy Reid who have played a major role in her care the last few years, enabling her to remain at home. Thanks also go to Hospice of the Shenandoah, who are a special group of people. We particularly appreciate all the loving care provided by Jeannie, Joey, Mary Scott and Annette.

A celebration of life will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Waynesboro on Saturday, July 30 ^th at 1:00.  There will no visitation or reception following the service.  Family will greet attendees on the front steps of the church.

Condolences and shared memories can be made through McDow Funeral Home who is handling funeral arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1904 Mt Vernon Street, Waynesboro VA 22980 or to Heifer International - a charity she supported for many years.