Lauralee "Suzie" Bernard

Lauralee “Suzie” Bernard was born on October 18, 1937 in New Britain, CT.  She was the daughter of the late Albert “Bumpy” and Barbara “Nanny” Ogle.  Lauralee graduated from New Britain High School and then went on to earn a degree in Nursing.  She was soon after married and lovingly raised four children in Berlin, CT.  Lauralee moved to East Matunuck, Rhode Island in 1985 settling close to her Mom providing care and companionship to her and Nanny’s husband Ralph Bowley.  Lauralee continued to work as a Nurse in various hospitals, nursing homes and eventually working for Hospice of Rhode Island.  Hospice care was her calling as she was able to provide so much care and comfort to those in need.   Lauralee was a born caregiver.   Coastal Rhode Island was clearly her happy place as she enjoyed the rural area, the ocean and the many friends she made in her time there.  A farmer at heart, Lauralee loved animals having horses, dogs, chickens and even pigs on her property.  Horseback riding was her passion that she enjoyed for over 50 years having traveled globally on multiple riding holidays.  Her grandchildren were the joy of her life and she loved taking them through the paces of caring for the animals, trips to the beach and playing in the yard.  As they grew she followed their progress closely and was ever curious as to the details of “whatcha up to?”

Lauralee is survived by her sister Wendy Lieberman and husband Ike Lieberman of Newington, her son Russell Bernard and his wife Michelle Bernard of New Britain, her daughter Tracy Cyr and husband Kenneth Cyr of Wethersfield, her daughter Amy Hurtado and her husband Edwin Hurtado of Newington and her son David Bernard and his wife Kathy Bernard of Berlin.  She is also survived by her six grandchildren Sarah Bernard, Matty and Charolette Cyr, Claire Hurtado, Conner and Jacob Bernard and 1 great grandson Levi Bernard.  She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her brother Harley Ogle and brother in law Stanley Maguder.

A celebration of life will be held at the First Congregational Church, 355 Main St. Cromwell, CT on Saturday, January 13th at 10 am.