Bernice (Lewis) Reynolds

Bernice Lewis Reynolds, 77 of Harlan, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2024, at her residence following an extended illness.

Bernice was born on July 25, 1947, in Pine Mountain, Kentucky to Fred and Lorene Boggs Lewis. She was the eldest of seven children. Bernice was a graduate of Annville High School and Southeast Nursing Program.

Bernice was a loving wife, mother and grandmother as well as a dedicated nurse. She began her nursing career at Harlan Hospital in 1967. It was clear that she had a special gift and an extraordinary ability to care for others. Bernice continued her career working as a school nurse for the Harlan County Board of Education. She was instrumental in the creation of Hospice in Bell and Harlan Counties, working many years as the only nurse. She worked tirelessly for over twenty years, ending her time with Hospice as Director. Before her retirement in 2007, Bernice ended her career working as advocate for the elderly in conjunction with Harlan County Senior Citizens.

Besides her parents, she is preceded in death by her in-laws, Wilburn and Elsie Thomas Reynolds, her son, Stacey Reynolds, her sister, Betty Shepherd, her brothers-in law, Carlyle Shepherd, Jim McKenzie and Gordon Reynolds.

Bernice is survived by her loving husband of fifty-seven years, Elmer. Her sons, David (Jessica) Reynolds and Jon (Stephanie) Reynolds. Her grandchildren, Dalton Reynolds, Katelyn Reynolds, Caleb Reynolds, Cameron Reynolds, Joe Reynolds and Craig Reynolds. She is also survived by her siblings, Julian (Joanna) Lewis, Brenda McKenzie, Barbara (Ronnie) Parker, Bonnie (Roy) Huff and Billie (Mike) Hood. Her two sisters-in-law, Theresa Richard, and Judy Reynolds. A host of nieces, nephews, family and friends also mourn her passing.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 8, 2024, from 5pm to 7pm in the Chapel of Henson & Rich Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 7pm with Rev. Arnold Martin officiating. Burial services will be Monday at 12pm at Resthaven Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

To the Reynolds family, the staff of the Henson & Rich Funeral Home would like to offer our heartfelt sympathy during their time of bereavement.

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