John Howard Bernard, 77, passed away on July 23, 2024. Born in Hammond on September 24, 1946, he was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He lived in Ponte Vedra for 45 years before moving to Alachua, FL, and found joy in various hobbies, including golfing and singing. John had a particular fondness for shrimp and any seafood in general.

John had a successful career in the US Navy where he retired after 22 years then also retired after a second career working for the St. John County School System. However, his proudest accomplishments stemmed from his 54 1/2-year marriage to Linda Gayle Tullier Bernard. Together, they raised three daughters, Belinda, Bridget (Arnold), and Bonnie (Grant), and were blessed with six grandchildren: Zachary, Elijah, Lauren, Rachel, Grant Michael, and Davis, and one great grand son, Everett.

John's defining traits included his love for singing and his dedication to directing church choirs for many years. Additionally, he possessed exceptional culinary skills and was renowned for his cake-decorating abilities throughout his community. In fact, he even crafted the wedding cakes for his daughters, Belinda & Bonnie.

Devoted to his faith, John actively participated in Palm Valley Baptist Church. He leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy of love and devotion to his family and community. John will be profoundly missed by his sister, Carolyn Bernard Owen, his daughters, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 5th at 11:30am at Chet's Creek Palm Valley Campus (4890 Palm Valley Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082) followed by graveside service at Jacksonville National Cemetery (4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218) at 2:30pm.