Maureen Bernat, 80, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 9, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born on June 11, 1944, in Brighton, Massachusetts, Maureen was the daughter of the late James T. and Mary (McGowan) Daly and grew up in Belchertown. She married John Bernat in July 1962, and they built a beautiful life together in Palmer, where they had five children. After John’s passing in 1979, Maureen showed incredible strength and resilience, raising her children on her own with unwavering love and devotion.

For many years, Maureen worked as a secretary in the Palmer Public Schools, beginning at Quaboag Elementary and later moving to Old Mill Pond, until she retired in 2011. Known for her kindness and commitment, she made lasting friendships and was a beloved presence. Maureen also was active in the community, volunteering at Story Hour at the Palmer Public Library, acting as Girl Scout Troop Leader, and working at the polls on Election Day. After retiring, she looked forward to breakfast with “the girls” every month, where she and close friends would catch up and reminisce fondly about the years.

Maureen loved to travel with her family and friends, with a special place in her heart for Ogunquit, Maine. She cherished walking along the Marginal Way and found peace in the ocean. She enjoyed reading, solving word searches, attending craft shows, and watching birds in her yard. Generous and patient, she was a constant source of guidance, support, and unconditional love.

Maureen was the proud mother of her daughters Barbara Barry (and her husband, Michael, of Palmer) and Allyson Singleton (and her husband, Daniel, of Enfield, Connecticut); and her sons Steven Bernat (and his wife, Amy, of Haydenville); William Bernat (and his wife, Jennifer, of Westborough); and James Bernat (and his wife, Amanda, of Shrewsbury). In addition to her parents and her husband, Maureen was predeceased by her sister, Marilyn Astin, and her brother, Brian Daly.

Maureen poured endless love into her grandchildren, creating cherished memories with Michael, Bradyn, Anna, Joseph, Julia, Nora, Margaret, and Thomas.

While her children will miss her deeply, they find comfort in knowing Maureen is now reunited with her beloved husband.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025 from 4:00-6:00pm with closing prayers to begin at 6:00pm at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Maureen’s memory may be made to the Palmer Public Library, 1455 North Main Street, Palmer, MA  01069 by visiting https://www.palmerlibrary.org/support-ppl/make-a-donation/