Bernice John Deem
Passed: December 01, 2023
Charleston, WV
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Bernice John Deem
Passed: December 01, 2023
Charleston, WV
Obituary
Bernice John “Bernie” Deem, 75, of Charleston, WV, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2023.
Bernie was born on July 28, 1948, in Kingwood, WV, the sixth of seven children. She was a proud graduate of Kingwood High School, where she was honored as a Princess at the annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival.
During her years at West Virginia University, she made many lifelong friends, including her sisters at Pi Beta Phi, and her husband, Bryan Deem, the love of her life. Bernie and Bryan were married for over 50 years. Together, they traveled the world, venturing far afield from their roots in Kingwood and Parkersburg, WV, to visit over 35 countries.
Bernie was a trailblazing career woman for her generation. She leveraged her English degree to ultimately become the Executive Vice-President of Human Resources for Kanawha Valley/One Valley Bank. Her family often marveled at how you could not go anywhere in town without Bernie running into a friend or colleague, or, quite often, someone who was both. Following her corporate career, Bernie continued her passion for Human Resources as a Principal with AlignHR, LLC, where she was still actively engaged at the time of her passing. During her long career, Bernie received a wide variety of accolades and recognition, including twice being honored by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), named as a WV Wonder Woman in 2017, serving as an expert witness on HR matters, and authoring numerous articles. She was well-known as an engaging and high energy speaker and instructor for SHRM and banking conferences.
In addition to her many career accomplishments, Bernie was a wonderful wife to Bryan and inspirational mother to her two daughters, Carrie and Stephanie. One of her greatest sources of joy was being a “Sity” (in tribute to her Lebanese heritage) to her two grandchildren, Megan and Harrison. She was also known as an exceptionally fun sister, sister-in-law, and aunt, among her large extended family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John B. John and Philomena John of Kingwood.
Bernie is survived by her husband, Bryan Deem of Charleston; daughter, Carrie Deem Lindsey (Rob Lindsey) of Chantilly, VA; daughter, Stephanie Deem of Falls Church, VA; and grandchildren, Megan and Harrison Lindsey.
Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, 1118 Virginia Street East, Charleston, WV, with Rev. Todd Wright officiating.
Visitation for family and friends will begin at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com.
Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
6 responses to Bernice John Deem
Sandy Kessell says:
December 7, 2023
My heart has been heavy with the news of Bernie’s passing. My sincerest of condolences to Bryan, her daughters, son in law and grandchildren and the extended family. She was a rare jewel. We would meet usually every couple months. But I must share a short funny story which I hope brings a smile to all. I had the cottage on Bradford St listed and was throwing a small party to introduce it to neighbors & friends — lotsa food & drink to be had — Bernie said I must take a short nap before it begins. She awakened and came into the dining room exclaiming “Oh my it is magic — I go take a nap and poof! It is all done magically — how is that?” Was such a fun evening & her graciousness was front and center. And much to her delight and to Bryan’s a couple attending bought their house the next morning. We laughed often about that evening.
Judge Carrie Webster says:
December 7, 2023
Prayers and condolences to Bernie’s husband and children. Bernie was always smiling and filled any room she entered with warmth and infectious energy. RIP Bernie!
Pat Butner says:
December 7, 2023
My sincere condolences to the family. Bernie was a former client of mine, but more than that became a dear friend. She was always so positive and smiling and happy to be with you. Bryan I’m so sorry for your loss. Pat Butner
Mary Poke says:
December 6, 2023
So sorry for your loss. My prayers to the family for comfort as God holds ((YOU ALL)) so close. Bernie and I worked in the same building. It was always a joy to see her each morning. She was always joyful and encouraging She had such a kind and giving spirit. Talking about our travels, I shared my only regret about traveling to Italy was that I didn’t buy a necklace at Murano Glass company in Venice. Months later Bernie came in with a box, she picked up a necklace for me on her trip to Italy. So kind. I will truly miss her joyful spirit and smile.
Karen (Kapp) Seman says:
December 5, 2023
Sincere condolences to Bernie’s family at this time of great sorrow. Bernie hired me as her assistant for my first job out of college, and I was greatly surprised and pleased to be randomly seated next to her on a flight many years later. She will always be a great light and inspiration to me, and so many.