Marian Bernhardt

Marian Estelle Bernhardt, a beloved wife, mother, Grammy, Gigi and friend, peacefully passed away on June 28, 2025 surrounded by those who loved her. Born on March 30, 1926, in Grove Hill, Alabama the youngest of four girls, she learned the value of hard work and faith early in life. Marian gave her heart to Jesus at a young age, a commitment that led her to leave home at the age of 19 to attend Southeastern Bible College. 

It was during her time there that she would meet the love of her life, Adam G Bernhardt. They shared over 60 years together before his passing. Marian dedicated her life to ministry, touching many lives from New Jersey to her cherished home in Gulf Breeze. Everyone that knew her loved her, she made friends wherever she went. With a profound awareness of the Holy Spirit, Marian was a true kingdom builder, desiring for others to experience the love of Jesus. She was the purest form of Christ’s love, making her faith appear effortless. 

Although we didn’t want to let her go, we knew our Grammy was ready to embrace her eternal home. This is what she lived for. Her absence leaves a huge void, and we will miss her more than words could ever express. We will choose to honor her memory by ensuring her legacy of love, faith, and kindness continues to live in our hearts and in the lives of those she touched. 

She is preceded in death by her husband of over 60 Years, Adam G. Bernhardt, her sisters, Christine Cumalander, Flossie Lee Hinson Fredericks and Julia Mae Baugh, and her dearest friend Audrey Kimmel. 

Marian is survived by her daughter Mary, and her husband Doug, her son, Adam and his wife Laura. Her beloved grandchildren, Julie (Jon), Jason (Lindsay), Judd, Jill (Tyler), Lauren (Chris) and Nathan (Amy), as well as her 16 great-grandchildren, Lexie, Emmie, Gavin, Grayson, Holden, Elliott, Harper, Judd, Liam, Lenox, Levi, Leilani, Theo, Tessa, Tori, and Ethan and many nieces, nephews and cousins who all loved her well. 

Her celebration of life will be held Monday, July 14th at Brownsville Assembly; Viewing at 10:00 and service at 11:00.

“On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross…I will cherish that old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down, I will cling to that old rugged cross and exchange it someday for a crown”