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Jane Frances (Mead) Bernier, 83, of Norman died Friday, April 9, at her home. Jane was born September 2, 1937 in Norman to Jean and Cecil Mead. She attended Norman Public Schools and upon graduation attended the University of Oklahoma on a band scholarship. She loved to regale her family with stories of her marching band escapades. She graduated from OU with a degree in Early Childhood Education. In 1958 she married Arthur Kenneth Bernier. They remained married until his death in 2004. After a brief time away while Ken was in the army, they established their home in Norman. She was a member of McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church. Jane worked as an early childhood educator in various capacities, notably with McFarlin Church, the Pottawatomie Indian Tribe and various Head Start Programs. Ultimately she transitioned into what would become her favorite career as the children’s librarian at the OKC Downtown Library. There she blossomed as Miss Jane, the lady who put on elaborate story times complete with costumes, puppets, props and library pets. She became a beloved storyteller and book reader who often visited local classrooms to share her love of reading and books. Throughout both her careers, Jane successfully strived to enrich the lives of the children in her community. Along the way, she inspired multiple generations of children to become lovers of reading. At home, Jane relished her role as Mom and then Grandma. She could most often be found on the ground or in a chair with the kids while they played games, created art or snuggled. But by far, everyone’s favorite activity was when she read them books and told them stories. Jane was also a dedicated Sooner sports fan, softball and football were her favorites, and she also enjoyed following Thunder basketball. She was a voracious reader in her own right and strongly supported the public library system. After she retired, she became an active volunteer for Friends of the Norman Public Library. Jane was preceded in death by her husband and her parents, brothers Walter Mead and Jack Mead and Jack’s wife Jeanne, and sisters Patricia Lawrence and Shirley Justice. Jane is survived by her daughters Michelle Little and husband Sam of Edmond, Christie Tongier of Asheville, North Carolina and Sarah (Vaughn) Gillard (to whom Jane was a surrogate mom) of Tonbridge, England. Her two sisters, Ann Kennedy of Norman and Carol Ross of Oklahoma City, also survive her as do her beloved grandchildren Stephanie Little and her partner Josh Thomas, Jessica (Little) Harraman and husband Preston, Madeline Little, Nia Hollister, Serena Hollister, Ben Gillard and Francesca Gillard as well as her favorite cousin, Kathy Brann of Atlanta, Georgia and many nieces, nephews and their families. With respect to the current public health crisis, a public memorial service will not be held but we encourage you to share your memories of Jane and condolences.
If desired, memorial contributions may be sent to Norman Friends of the Public Library. As a way to remember her, Jane’s family strongly encourages everyone to take the time to sit down and read a good book.
Susan Bumgarner says
I first met Jane when I was at OU studying early childhood education. We became professional friends for years. Our paths didn’t cross much over the past thirty years or so, but it was always a joyous moment when they did.
I know you will miss her very much!
Lani Malysa says
To the family of Jane Bernier, we are sorry for your loss. We knew Jane and Ken as long-time neighbors on Cambridge Drive. Her dogs (the golden retriever and then Lilly) were frequent visitors to our house. I would visit Jane and we would enjoy sitting in her back yard chatting while bird watching. The entire neighborhood missed Jane when she moved from Cambridge Drive to OKC. We feel grateful for our many decades of neighborly friendship With Jane and Ken.
Lani Malysa & Jon Forman (Formerly of 1418 Cambridge Drive)
Lani Malysa and Jon Forman says
To the family of Jane Bernier, we are sorry for your loss. We knew Jane and Ken as long-time neighbors on Cambridge Drive. Her dogs (the golden retriever and then Lilly) were frequent visitors to our house. I would visit Jane and we would enjoy sitting in her back yard chatting while bird watching. The entire neighborhood missed Jane when she moved from Cambridge Drive to OKC. We feel grateful for our many decades of neighborly friendship With Jane and Ken.
Shavon Kennedy says
Jane was my aunt. Growing up we had so many family get togethers, especially on Christmas Eve. As time went on, I didn’t participate with all of the get togethers but Jane and I would text and or talk on occasion. She understood me, supported me and loved me no matter what. I will miss her love and her laughter.
Ann Kenedy says
condolences from Patricia Pierson Neher, Candace (Candy) Shelton), Byron Shelton & other old friends from long ago McFarland St. and McKinley School.
Ann Kennedy says
sweet condolences from Naola Masters
Ann Kennedy says
sympathy to all Jane’s family from Wyatt Warren, Boise ID. Also Jeanne Thompson, Littleton, CO, and Janice Simms, Norman.
Anne Fischer says
I remember Miss Jane and her storytimes at the Downtown Library. I work for the library but was in another building. Any time I saw her in costume, I knew the kids were in for a treat! I am very sorry for your loss.
Steve and Sarah Corfidi says
Just heard of Jane’s passing earlier this year; our condolences to her many relatives and friends. My wife and I had the pleasure of getting to know Jane while serving as a fellow Friends of the Norman Library volunteers during their semi-annual book sales in the early 2000s. Jane was always friendly and willing to lend an ear. She provided thoughtful advice on just about anything, from selecting a good book for our young kids to how to boost book sales. I haven’t seen Jane since we left Norman some time ago, but I know she will be missed.
James Nimmo says
I’m just now finding out about Miss Jane’s passing. I had the great pleasure of working with her at the OKC downtown library for several years. Her command of a roomful of busy chattering kids of a young age was magical and had to be seen to be believed, all accomplished without shouting, gimmicks, or intimidation. I’ve never seen this skill in any other teacher or librarian. Jane was an excellent colleague and a great deal of fun to be with and an unforgettable personality.