WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. —  When you read this, I will have peacefully passed away in my cozy bed, surrounded by my beloved family.

We are all interconnected in this life, bound by the mysteries of what death truly means. Each day, we immerse ourselves in the myriad tasks of living, often taking advantage of time in ways that may not be entirely fulfilling. My diagnosis with pancreatic cancer at the age of 51 made me realize that my time on this earth was not enough. I wish I had more time.

Of course, I have always cherished beautiful things—clothes, jewelry, handbags, and decor. However, I wish I had been more present with the people who care and love me. I wish I had nurtured my relationships and created more meaningful memories. Ultimately, those are the things that truly matter.

I grew up in Williamstown, Massachusetts, and attended local public schools. My family ran two local businesses: Bernardy’s Restaurant and Bernardy’s Greenhouse. I was fortunate to have my family as a significant part of our community.

Dance has been a passion of mine for years. I was particularly fond of ballet. Every summer, my parents would generously send me to Kevin Allen dance camp in Stamford, Vermont, where I could explore the connection between my body and mind. It remains one of my most cherished memories.

Music has always held a special place in my life. In my early years, I studied piano and the saxophone. I have a wide appreciation for various music genres, live performances, pop culture, and politics. In my later years, I loved swimming and making puzzles. Sharing my life with my dog, Nova, and cat, Mittens, also brought me great joy.

I’m grateful for growing up without today’s technology. I spent countless hours engrossed in books, relishing the aroma of each page. I ran freely through the fields of my childhood farm, feeling the wind in my hair. I would ride in my father’s pickup truck, bouncing in the passenger seat. Summer was special because we would visit the swim hole to cool off and savor the scent of mint growing by the stream. And let’s not forget the flowers—I absolutely adore them.

I pursued my education at Green Mountain College and St. John Fisher College, majoring in elementary education. Subsequently, I attended Southern Vermont College and earned an associate’s degree in nursing science. I moved to Bennington, Vermont, and embarked on my career as a registered nurse. I dedicated 25 years to the Bennington community, finding immense satisfaction and pride in my profession. I genuinely enjoyed the people and families I cared for, as well as my colleagues.

Above all, my greatest achievement in life has been my children. I have four wonderful children: Aaryngston Lamar Winston (Alexis), Chloe Rose (stillborn), Samuel Isaac (Ashtin), Laura Elise (Nicholas), and Rachel Rose (Brady). There are no words to describe the depth of a mother’s love. I am incredibly proud of each and every one of them. I often reflect on how they will feel once I’m gone, but I have faith that they will navigate this new normal with grace and resilience. I am confident in their inherent wonder and potential. I will always be with them, as they are an integral part of my life and being.

I also leave behind my beloved and cherished best friend, Julie Normyle. For 36 years, we shared the joys and challenges of life together. She has demonstrated an unparalleled grace and unconditional love. She has always stood by my side, offering unwavering support and guidance throughout my journey. I will love her forever and always.

As I transition from this life, I hold onto faith that I no longer endure pain and suffering. I believe that everything now makes sense. I am reunited with my baby, my father, aunt, uncles, cousins, friends and grandparents.

I urge each of you to refrain from asking what you can do to help someone who is suffering or dying. Instead, let’s focus on performing acts of service. Prepare a delicious meal and deliver it to them. Send them a bouquet of flowers. Read to them while they rest in bed. Assist them with their laundry or clean their home. Offer a ride to their appointment. Sit with them during their treatment. Create a meaningful connection with them. Remember, all we have in this life is each other, and that’s all that truly matters. Let’s be kind and compassionate to one another.

Peace and love to all.

Suzanna was preceded in death by her loving father Andrew Bernardy Jr. Along with her children Suzanna is survived by; her mother Susan Bernardy of Williamstown, her aunt Joanne Sylvester of Williamstown, her sisters Wendy Kipp (Aaron) of Hancock and Maribeth Pomerantz (David) of Williamstown, her brother Andrew Bernardy III (Bernadette) of Williamstown and many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

Friends and relatives are invited to visitation from 11a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Devlin Funeral Home in Bennington. Following the conclusion of visitation, there will be a funeral service offered for Suzanna, also at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be made at www.devlinfuneralhomevt.com