Beaver Bank, N.S. — Heather Roberta Lorene Bernier, a devoted educator and cherished member of the Beaver Bank community, passed away on June 2, 2025, at the Halifax Infirmary. She was 41.
Bernier served as Vice Principal and teacher at Leslie Thomas Junior High School, where her dedication to education and unwavering compassion earned the respect and affection of students, colleagues, and parents alike. Known for her ability to connect with students — especially those in need of extra support — she brought warmth, empathy, and an infectious smile to every interaction.
“Heather had a way of making everyone feel seen and heard,” said a colleague at Leslie Thomas. “Her presence was comforting, her encouragement sincere, and her commitment to her students, endless.”
Beyond her professional role, Bernier was deeply involved in the life she built with her family. She is remembered as a joyful and stylish woman who embraced everyday moments with enthusiasm — whether it was shopping trips with her daughters, cheering from the sidelines at her sons’ softball games, or enjoying quiet rituals like Sunday Costco runs with her husband, Jerome.
Her love of fashion, particularly her affinity for LuLu Lemon and “OOTD” bonding sessions with her daughters, revealed her fun-loving personality and close family ties. Friday night family pizza and movie nights were a treasured tradition, filled with laughter and love.
Friends and family describe Bernier as endlessly curious and open-hearted — always eager to try something new, listen to others, and lead by example. Through her actions, she taught her children the values of kindness, courage, and grace.
Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her — not only as an educator, but as a loving wife, devoted mother, and dear friend.