Bernice (Jessome) Hatcher

Bernice Hatcher (née Jessome)
May 9, 1937 – June 28, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Bernice Hatcher (née Jessome), on June 28, 2026, at Northside General Hospital, at the age of 89.

Bernice leaves behind her beloved husband Cyril Hatcher, with whom she shared a beautiful love story built on trust, devotion, and unwavering commitment. Through every season of life, they faced each challenge hand in hand, always placing one another first. Cyril dedicated himself to caring for the love of his life, ensuring her happiness and well-being each and every day. Their marriage was an inspiration to their family and to all who had the privilege of knowing them.

She leaves behind her loving children, Gail (Peter), Glen (Andrea), and Gary (Kelly), who were the pride and joy of her life. She was a cherished grandmother to David (Carlie) and Sean (Jocylene) and Jordan, and a proud great-grandmother to Emilia, Bridget, Callaghan, and Wrenley. Her family was her greatest blessing, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Bernice dedicated her working life to serving others. She spent many years at the Strand Bowling Alley before continuing her career in the cafeteria at Memorial High School, where countless students remember her warm smile, kind heart, and generous spirit. She made sure every child received a healthy meal and left with a full belly, treating everyone with the same kindness she extended to her own family.

Nothing brought Bernice greater happiness than opening her home to others. Whether you were family, a lifelong friend, or someone visiting for the very first time, you were welcomed with open arms and treated like one of her own. If you sat down at her table for a meal, you quickly learned to come hungry, because no sooner had you finished your third bite than she was happily filling your plate once again. Her love was expressed through giving, and one of her greatest joys was making sure everyone around her was well-fed, comfortable, and cared for.

Before her mobility slowed her down, Bernice was an avid bingo player who rarely missed a game. She treasured the friendships she made over the years and always looked forward to gathering with friends while hoping to hear that elusive "last number."

Bernice will be dearly missed by her sisters Eileen and Arthena, and her brothers Joe (Mary), Jimmy (Angela), Nancy (Don), and Blaine (Paula). She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Laurie Hatcher and Diane (Greg) Baker, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

She was predeceased by her parents, Patrick and Viola (Reashore) Jessome; her siblings Theresa (Dave), Beatrice (John), Thomas (Florence), Reg, Anita (Orrin), Helen, and Lorne David; her brothers-in-law Bernie MacDonald, Leo Matheson, and Sid Hatcher; and her sisters-in-law Dorothy (Jackie), Queenie (Wellington), and Edna (Edward).

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of the 4th Floor at Northside General Hospital for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Bernice. Sincere thanks are also extended to the dedicated Home Care staff, whose kindness and support helped make her comfortable in her own home.

A special thank you is offered to dear family friends, James and Cecilia, whose friendship meant so much to Bernice. Cecilia's countless hours spent sitting with Mom and James' wonderful ability to make her laugh brightened many of her days. Your love and friendship will never be forgotten.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Bernice's legacy lives on through the love she shared so freely, the lives she touched so deeply, and the countless memories she leaves behind.

A visitation will be held for the late Bernice Hatcher, Saturday July 4, 2026 from 4-6 pm in JM Jobes Funeral Home, Sydney Mines. 

Mom, may you rest in peace. Love ya.

"A life well lived, a love well shared, and a memory that will live forever."

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