Marilyn Eileen Bernardy, 81, of Guthrie, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at her home on October 6, 2025, surrounded by her family’s love. She was born on January 5, 1944, in Golf Manor, Ohio, to Stanley W. and Dorothy M. (Schnell) Budd.
On May 15, 1965, Marilyn married Thomas “Tom” Bernardy, the love of her life and her steadfast partner for 60 wonderful years. Together they built a life defined by devotion, laughter, and love. Their marriage was a true example of commitment and companionship, and the family they created together was her greatest joy.
Marilyn devoted her life to her family. She was proud to be a homemaker and found joy in being present through every moment of her children’s lives. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting smell of something baking in the kitchen.
Those who knew Marilyn will remember her for her gentle smile, her love of laughter, and her unwavering loyalty to family and friends. She loved simple pleasures like playing Canasta around the table with friends, tending to her flowers, and spending time in her garden. But above all, nothing brought her more happiness than being grandma. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she never missed an opportunity to cheer them on, celebrate their accomplishments, or simply listen to their stories. They kept her young at heart and filled her days with laughter and love.
Marilyn is survived by her devoted husband, Tom Bernardy; her children, Tom Bernardy, Jr. and wife Trisha, Jeanie Oates and husband Mark, and Mary Brann and husband Alan; her sister, Jeanette Buller and husband Clarence; and her brothers, Joe Budd and wife Sandy, and Tom Budd and wife Juanita. She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren: Ryan and Kaylee Bernardy, Marilyn Rose Oates, Daniel Bernardy, Chris Idell, Preston Brann, Rachel Bernardy, Tristan Brann, Jacqueline Oates, Emily Bernardy, Alexandria Oates, and one great-grandchild: Kit Bernardy, all of whom brought endless joy and pride to her life. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents and brother Stanley Budd.
A memorial mass will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. James Wickersham officiating. The family will receive and greet friends from 10:30 11:00 AM.
Following mass, lunch will be served at: 5184 W. Canyon Rd., Guthrie, OK 73044.
Services are under the direction of Hayes Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at hayesfh.com.
Published in the Guthrie News Leader - October 15, 2025