Bernadette “Bernie” M. Phillips, 78, formerly of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and currently of Buckingham, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, surrounded by her adoring and loving family.

Born and raised in Scranton to the late Irene and John Cawley, Bernie remained a proud Scrantonian until she was swept off her feet by her childhood friend, John Phillips. Their love story began with a bold prom invitation from Bernie, and the rest was history. Together they built a life full of laughter, devotion, and 57 beautiful years of marriage. Some of their fondest memories include double dates with Bernie’s sister Marie and her husband Tommy—roller coasters, county fairs, and spicy Italian sausage with onions and peppers were all part of the adventure.

Bernie was a fiercely devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker—though her children often joke she may have been more of a “warden” than a homemaker at times. She and John raised four incredible kids, filling their home with warmth, mischief, and memories. They even installed an in-ground pool early on and declared, “There’s your yearly vacation!”—a decision that brought endless joy and summer fun to the family.

Affectionately known as “Memaw,” Bernie was happiest at home with her family. She was a phenomenal cook and baker, famous for her peach cobbler and made-to-order birthday cakes. A true pop culture enthusiast, she never missed an episode of her favorite game shows and was always ready to share the latest in celebrity gossip. She was also an avid Philadelphia sports fan and proudly cheered on the Phillies and the Eagles—never missing a game and never shy about voicing her opinions on a bad call. If you visited Bernie, you left with a warm heart, a full stomach, and probably an update on both the Kardashians and the starting lineup.

Bernie is survived by her loving husband, John; her children Lisa DiGenova (Alex), John Phillips (Jenifer), Debra Phillips (Shawna), and Yvette Stowman (Jim); and her cherished grandchildren Carissa, Cory, Samantha, Vanessa, Nadia, Julian, Nicholas, and Tyler. She is also survived by her sister Marie and brothers John and Paul. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Michael, and her sister Joan.

Although our hearts are heavy, we are deeply grateful for the extra two months we had with her. She was comfortable, fully herself, and surrounded by love, laughter, and spa days filled with mani/pedis and massages. On her good days, she’d beat us to the latest news—world events and celebrity drama.

Bernie was endlessly loved and will be forever missed. In her honor, we ask that you not mourn her loss but join us in celebrating her extraordinary life—a life filled with humor, fierce love, and unforgettable memories.

Family and friends are invited to Bernie’s Life Celebration, Wednesday, May 7th, from 6-8 pm, at John F. Givnish of Buckingham, 4886 York Road, and to participate in her Funeral Mass, Thursday, May 8th, 12 noon, at the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 5194 Cold Spring Creamery Road, Doylestown, PA. Interment will follow in Washington Crossing National Cemetery at 2:30 pm.