Bernice Malone

Bernice Malone was a beacon of generosity, love, and selflessness, whose radiant spirit illuminated the lives of all who knew her. Born on February 16, 1965, in Robinson, IL, Bernice's journey through life was a testament to the power of a giving heart and an unyielding zest for life. She passed away surrounded by the love of her family on August 13, 2024, at IU Health University Hospital in Indianapolis, IN, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion that will surely endure for generations.

Her childhood was spent in the Hardinville area, and though her formal education at Oblong High School was cut short, Bernice's real education came from the University of Life, where she graduated with honors in compassion and empathy. Her professional path was a reflection of her innate desire to uplift others. Initially working in a number of factories, she eventually found her true calling as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), caring for individuals with special needs. Bernice's tenure at South Haven and later at KCARC in Vincennes was marked by her unwavering commitment to the well-being of those she served. Her enduring kindness earned her affectionate nicknames like "Grandma" and "Denise." It was so very evident that she was a beloved figure in these dear people's lives and that she reveled in the joy of helping them. Bernice's love extended beyond human connections to the world of nature. Lighthouses captivated her imagination, while her affinity for animals was evident in her fondness for wolves and cardinals. She believed that every cardinal sighting was a visit from a departed loved one, offering her comfort and protection.

Bernice's interests were as vibrant as her fierce personality. She relished the simple pleasures of life, from the joy of family cookouts (with the unmistakable scent of burnt hot dogs filling the air) to the freedom of walking barefoot in the grass. Bernice's disdain for shoes was such that she would often wear flip-flops to work, much to the amusement of those around her. Her love for Western movies, especially those starring John Wayne, and her passion for TV crime and legal dramas were matched only by her love for music. Classic Country legends and especially the king of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley, all held a special place in her heart. But not even Elvis could hold a candle to her loved ones. Family, after all, was the compass that guided Bernice, and her grandchildren were, by all accounts, the center of her universe. She dedicated herself to their happiness and well-being, embodying the essence of a devoted wife, loving mother, and doting grandmother.

She often quipped, "I wasn't put on this earth to judge anybody," a saying that still speaks volumes about her character and the way she approached life. We will remember her as a firebrand of a woman who loved fiercely, forgave easily, and lived her 59 years with a generosity that knew no bounds. In her final act of benevolence, Bernice gave the gift of life as an organ donor, and her kidneys have already brought hope to two recipients. Her life, a testament to her belief that helping others was not just an act but a calling, ensures that her spirit will continue to guide and inspire for as long as we have a soul stirring within us and the breath to speak her name.

She married John Malone, Sr., on May 18, 1984, and he survives. She is also survived by her children, John, Jr. & Lacey Malone (Robinson, IL) and Kristy Malone & Quica Flores (Robinson, IL); by her grandkids, Addison Malone, Hunter Malone, Eli Cummins, and Raiden Malone; by her sisters, Vicky Culbertson (Oblong, IL) and Mary Williamson (Robinson, IL); by her brothers, Carl Miller (Robinson, IL), Bill Miller (Lawrenceville, IL), Roger Miller (Duncanville, IL), and David Miller (Hardinville, IL); and by several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Eugene Miller & Betty Jean (Watts) Miller; by her brothers, Albert and Ronnie Miller; and by her sister, Carolyn Otey.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 20th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation and be held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, with Preacher Paul Myers officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Robinson Fire Department's "Toys for Tots" program, and memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.