Bernardine “Berni” Silvestre

Bernardine “Berni” Silvestre, 86, of Audubon passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Phoenixville Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 27, 1939, in Norristown, PA she was the daughter of the late Steve Puleo & Geraldine (Caprio) Puleo, and the beloved wife of the late John F. Silvestre, Jr. 

Mrs. Silvestre was a graduate of Norristown Area High School, Class of 1957 and the Lansdale School of Business Class of 1958. She was awarded a Certificate of Modeling from June McAdams Modeling and Finishing School in January of 1958. She was employed by Fisher Scientific following her graduation. In October 1992, Berni was employed at the Audubon YMCA Program Center as a Teacher’s Assistant. She simultaneously continued her education from 1992 through 2000 receiving multiple certifications in Early Childhood Development from Marywood College, Keystone College, and the Pennsylvania Childcare/Early Development Training Center. She completed the YMCA of the USA Training program and was awarded certification in the Principles of YMCA Childcare in 1999. Berni was a devoted parishioner of the St. Teresa of Avila Church for many years. She enjoyed traveling to Chesapeake Bay, Colorado, Arizona, Florida, Italy and Gettysburg, PA to visit with family and friends who had moved from the area over her lifetime. One of her most treasured hobbies/traditions were her long-standing Saturday shopping days at the King of Prussia Plaza with her twin sister Geraldine (Gerri) and often ending their day at Lou’s Steak Shop in Norristown. She was a member of a local card club with her close friends and family. Most of all, she adored her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who brought her so much joy. She cherished the time she was able to spend with her family. She was a devoted mother, loving grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and a dear friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing her and will be missed by many.

Berni is survived by her loving children, David (Lisa) Silvestre, Donna (George) Mengel, Steve Silvestre, Tara (Robert) Turner; 12 grandchildren: Heather (Rafa), Kim, Kevin (Cory), Lauren (Ryan), Ethan, Drew, Lindsey, Shane, Brett, Ty, Chad, and Savannah; 6 great grandchildren, Parker, Kinsley, Connor, Lyle, Finley, and Weslyn; She is also survived by her loving sisters, Rosemarie (Clarence T.) Anthony, and Geraldine (the late Anthony) Tornetta, and many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Family and friends are invited to call on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 9:45AM-10:45AM at the St. Teresa of Avila Church, 1260 S. Trooper Rd. Norristown, PA 19403. Mass will follow the calling time at 11:00AM at the church. Burial will take place in the St. Patrick’s Cemetery, East Norriton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Bernardine Silvestre to:

St. Teresa of Avila Church,1260 S.Trooper Rd. Norristown, PA 19403.

https://www.osvhub.com/stteresaavilaparish/giving/funds

Daily Bread Community Food Pantry, 16 Iron  Bridge Dr. Collegeville PA, 19426

https://dailybreadcommunityfoodpantry.org/donate/

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