B It was an absolute honour to know dear ‘B’, as I always called her. When recruiting staff in the Guildhall Tearoom I was blown away by Bernice’s CV and then by her in person a unique and instantly likeable character. She asked why I took on an older person, when nobody else had, but I loved her from the word go and had no doubts whatsoever she would be an asset and become a dear friend.

She turned her hand to everything and her hard work and commitment never faltered - we would sit at the end of a busy day and have a cup of tea and a chat - she had so many wonderful stories to tell.

She inspired my husband Kev and I to follow our dream and move to France. With her we visited her dear friends in Normandy and had the best of times.

Dearest B you enriched our time on Earth - thank you so much for your friendship, inspiration and being part of our lives 

Denise and Kev xx

Raising a glass to you lovely lady. You always brought light and laughter to my home. Xx

Nick Weaver

We first met Bernice when she was running the Auberge in France and we remained firm friends even after her return to England.

Our abiding memories are ones of fun and laughter with good food and wine, whether at our place or dining at the Auberge or later with Bernice’s fantastically successful secret dining venture when she lived in St Quentin. Bernice was always there to help us with house parties too when we had bitten off more than we could chew! She even left us her chafing dishes when she went back to England!

As if those talents weren’t enough, she gave us an enormous amount of help in establishing our gardens at the gites and our own house. She was so full of knowledge about planting. We always think of her and will continue to do so when the Spring comes and year on year, we see the fruits of her advice.

Margaret and Alan

When I think of Bernice, I think of the joy and laughter she brought into everyone’s life and alway looking her next adventure. She beamed with character, bringing fun and excitement to every occasion. I enjoyed listening to all the stories of good times at Jacob’s Hall with all the parties they used to have.

I have been lucky enough to have been part of many fond memories with her and I know my parents have been too. My favourite and proudest memory will be her watching me get married and being part of our wedding day.

We will miss you very much but will always remember you and the times we shared together. Rest peacefully Bernice.

Justin & Steph.

I met Bernice (who I called Mrs Glam) working at the National trust in feb 2018.

She was a fountain of knowledge with regards to cooking and it certainly was her passion . I was asked to come for lunch expecting a sandwich and had a 3 course meal ! I loved her paintings 2 of which hang proudly in my home she had so many talents … I used to say she had all the arty farty ways about her !! We kept in touch after Bernice left the National Trust after covid having a coffee and chat every couple of months . I’ll miss her dearly , her wisdom , life stories and her very glamorous outfits . RIP Mrs Glam . The photos show 2 of her paintings and one which was taken in my garden during covid …… that’s why we are all far apart !

Beverley

Bernice I know loved a rhyme

So I thought, it may be time

To put in words what cannot be

To describe a woman such as she

She loved to travel,

Beach and sea

Cooking and books

Wine and tea

A life so full of adventure and friends

Of twists and turns and many bends

She had no regrets, she always said

Just follow your heart not always your head

Her humour was wicked

Spiced with wit,

A deep thinker

Would not tolerate a twit!

Nanna, mum, sister and friend

So sad that life has come to an end

However I can say with joy and pride

It was a pleasure to have Bernice by my side.

Barbara

Nana, we love you and will miss you

Tully, Jude & Noah

Treasured memories of a good neighbour, remembering the first time we meet Bernice was chasing Zar up the high street in a baby doll nightdress introducing her self as our new neighbour .

Many a happy days and nights spent at Jacobes .

RIP Bernice we will miss the laughter xx

Love always

Joyce House

Farewell to a beloved aunt who always had such zest for life whether it be a simple shopping trip or travels much further afield, a wonderful story teller & always ready to party!
So many wonderful memories, R.I.P Bernice.

Jackie & Simon

Fond and treasured memories of a special classy fun loving lady , who always had an infectious laugh and smile for everyone .

Rip Bernice Thankyou for the laughter ,  Now dance with our dad in clouds until we can all  get to the party ❤️❤️

Tracey

Farewell to my artistic sister and friend, my fun-loving holiday companion, travel will not be the same without her. Remembered forever.

Wendy

There are many words that could describe my mum, loving, caring, kind, full spirit and dependable. But to me she was and always will be my beautiful mum!

I have so many wonderful memories with her, we were looking to make many more, but sadly she was taken away too early!  We were planning to have Christmas together and she was really excited to be spending this with us this year.

I was with her on the Wednesday before and she was still as ever having a laugh and joke about life. This photo sums it up for me, nothing could stop us spending time together, COVID hit and when allowed we sat having a cup of tea in the rain.

She will leave a large whole in my heart, I will never find anyone more special or precious as my mum! I love you and you will always be in my heart.

Harri

Xxx

Your mother was a joy to know and such a good friend of Isobel. We have known her since she started working in The Saracens Head in Newton Green and Isobel and Jim remained friends for many, many years. Bernice felt like opart of our family, always with Mum to the end. We will miss her so much.

Jacobs Hall was I think a formative location for me. It is here I witnessed my Mum work hard, and I think fair to say, play hard.

Mum never regretted the disappointments or shouted too loud about the achievements and Jacobs definitely provided both. What she did do, was have fun along the way. It was always a journey, always evolving, always getting better. Always a positive experience, well, nearly always. ;-)

I believe it was Mum who was instrumental (with others help it is fair to say) in building a highly commended restaurant which produced great food and provided great service. Mum cared about this business and every customer in it, friendly regulars, East-end gansters and even the cast of Hi-de-hi. It cannot be denied it was hard work, but they also had fun.