WINTER HARBOR – Bernice D. (Leary) Sargent, 88, died May 10, 2006, following a long battle with cancer. She passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family. Bernice was born Aug. 17, 1917, in Fitchburg, Mass., to Francis and Beatrice Leary. She enjoyed a close relationship with her parents, grandparents and three younger brothers. Bernice graduated from Fitchburg High School in 1935. In 1939, she married Casper E. Sargent and began a wonderful life as a beloved wife, caring mother to three daughters, and dedicated grandmother for many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bernice and her husband returned to Winter Harbor in 1984 to aid in the care of his sister, Sylvia and her husband, Lamont Perry. Bernice and Casper looked forward to their 67th wedding anniversary this July. Bernice was a devout Catholic and so gracious in her love and mercy for others. She was happiest being home and spending time with family and friends. Bernice also enjoyed traveling and being by the beautiful seaside. Bernice was predeceased by her three brothers, Kenneth, Thomas and Douglas Leary. She is also predeceased by her grandson, Scott Tapply of New Ipswich, N.H. Bernice is survived by her husband, Casper of Winter Harbor; three daughters and their families, Barbara and Steven W. Michaud of New Ipswich, N.H., Margaret Grammer of Winter Harbor and Jo-Anne Pelletier of Milford, N.H. Grandchildren include Mark Tapply, Melanie Wagner and Steve D. Michaud of New Ipswich, N.H., Patrick Michaud of Manchester, N.H., Natalie Grammer of Manderville, La., Ross Grammer of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, and Alyssa and Allison Pelletier of Milford, N.H. In addition, Bernice leaves three great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and friends. There will be no calling hours. A memorial Mass at St. Joseph’s Church in Ellsworth will be announced once arrangements are completed. A private burial will follow with immediate family. In lieu of flowers, Bernice requested that donations be made to one of the following organizations: Eleanor Widener Dixon Memorial Clinic, 37 Clinic Rd., Gouldsboro, ME 04607, Mary Dow Center, 50 Union St. Suite 3600, Ellsworth, ME 04605, St. Joseph’s Church, 231 Main St., Ellsworth, ME 04605 or Community Health and Counseling Services, 415 Water St., Ellsworth, ME 04605.
BERNICE D. (LEARY) SARGENT
