Frances Elaine Bernier

Frances Elaine Bernier (Beck), 86, of Newport, Vermont, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2026, after facing several health challenges with strength and grace.

Born on August 25, 1940, in Newport, Vermont, Fran was the daughter of Howard Beck and Pearl Kelley. She married the love of her life, Raymond "Ray" Bernier, on April 23, 1960, and together they shared 47 years of marriage filled with love, devotion, and family.

Fran and Ray operated the Blue Oven Bakery on East Main Street in Newport for a time before Fran pursued her true passion, education. She had a special gift for working with children and served as a Special Educator at Lowell Graded School for many years. Even after retirement, she continued teaching as a substitute educator throughout Orleans County. A lifelong learner, Fran earned her Master's Degree, demonstrating her commitment to education and personal growth.

Family was the center of Fran's life. She treasured every opportunity to spend time with those she loved, whether gathering for holidays, sharing meals, camping, or simply being together. She was known for her caring heart, nurturing spirit, and willingness to help others. Fran loved cooking, caring for children, and opening her home to animals in need, often rescuing and caring for pets. She was also a dedicated member of Newport Baptist Church, where she faithfully served through Kids Club, the Senior Luncheon program, and many other church activities.

Fran was predeceased by her parents, Howard Beck and Pearl Kelley; her beloved husband, Raymond Bernier; her son, Timothy Bernier; her daughter, Julie Richards; her granddaughter, Sierra Bernier, and her grandson Michael Geraw.

She is survived by her sister, Beverly Hisman; her sons, Michael Bernier and his wife, Sue, Thomas Bernier and his wife, Celine, and Robert Bernier and his wife, Jennifer; her daughters, Jeanine LaCourse, Shannon Bernier, Mechelle Bernier, and Anna Streeter and her husband, Daniel. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Caitlin Bernardini (Mason), Amber Bernier (Brent Ming), Josh Bernier (Lexi), Whitney Douglas (Seth), Chris Richards (Shelly), Erin Richards, Ryan Bernier, Bridgette Bernier, Robert Bernier Jr., Courtney Bernier, Faith Bernier, Amanda O'Kusky (Kyle) , Josh Currier, Oliver Bernier, and Estella Streeter, in addition to numerous, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Fran is also survived by many foster children and countless others whom she loved and considered part of her family. Her beloved cat, Rusty, also survives her.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Curtis-Britch Funeral Home, 37 Lake Road, Newport, Vermont.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Newport Baptist Church, 306 East Main Street, Newport, Vermont. Burial will follow at Derby Center Cemetery on Nelson Hill Road in Derby, Vermont. Family and friends are invited to return to Newport Baptist Church following the burial for food, refreshments, and fellowship.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions in Fran's memory may do so to Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Society, 4473 Barton-Orleans Road, Orleans, Vermont 05860.

Fran's life was defined by her love for God, her family, her students, and the many people and animals whose lives she touched. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to others will be remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Online condolences are welcomed at curtis-britch.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home & Cremation Service, locally family owned and operated.