Bernice Irene Arnold

                                         Bernice Irene (Earl) Arnold (1940-2025) 

Bernice Irene (Earl) Arnold, beloved wife to Leslie (Les) Clarence Arnold of Tacoma, WA., passed away peacefully, holding her husband’s hand, on May 13, 2025, at Eliseo Nursing Home and Long-Term Care Facility in Tacoma, WA. She left an indelible mark on her family and everyone with whom she came in contact. She will be sorely missed by all. 

Bernice, or Bernie, was born in Orofino, ID., on November 5, 1940, to Joseph Arthur and Alma Marion Earl, the 7th of 8 children. Bernice attended Auburn High School where she was a member of the cheer team. She had many types of jobs over the years, even owning her own restaurant in Latah, WA., and finally retiring from Financial Pacific Leasing, Inc., located in Federal Way, WA., in 2013 at the age of 72. 

She was a devoted mother to Daniel Lewis Elliott 66 of Spokane, WA., Gina Bernice Stewart 64 (husband Jeff) of Lakebay, WA., and Patrick Brian Elliott 63 (wife Ada), of St. Maries, ID. She loved her children for whom she always had a warm smile, kisses and lots of hugs. 

She took special joy in being a grandparent to Brian, Amanda, Susan, Justin, Tyshawnna, and great grandparent to Dylan, Taylor, Camden, Grace, Brooklyn, Carson, Cody and Deacon. Grandma Bernie especially loved giving gifts to her grandchildren and never missed sending a birthday card. 

She loved to cook and garden. She was a talented artist and in her later years enjoyed making Diamond Art Pictures. She always had a story to tell and had a wonderful sense of humor. And ‘oh boy’ could she fish! 

Bernice was preceded in death by her father, Joseph and mother, Alma, brothers Clair and Jack, and sisters Althea, Inez, Cora, Grace and Eunice, and is survived by her husband Les, her children Dan, Gina and Pat, her grandchildren Brian, Amanda, Susan, Justin, Tyshawnna , and great grandchildren Dylan, Taylor, Camden, Grace, Brooklyn, Carson, Cody and Deacon who will never forget the special love she brought to each of their lives.

 A Celebration of Life will be held at Noon on June 7, 2025, at South Lakeshore Christian Church located at 1740 S. 84th St. Tacoma, WA. 98444.