Bernice Fowler Hitchens, 98, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. She was born August 3, 1928, in Meyersdale, Pennsylvania, to the late Leonard C. Greig Sr. and Margaret M. Greig (Sipple).

Bernice was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and dear friend. She will be remembered for her strong, independent spirit and her love of family.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John M. Hitchens Jr., with whom she shared 60 years; her first husband, Calvin S. Fowler; her parents; six brothers, Leonard Jr. (Mae), William (Marie), Henry (Dolly), Blaine (Mary), Donald (Mary Ann) and Clarence (Judy); her sister Margie Fritz (Ernest); and beloved in-laws,Frank, Ella, Kathleen and Palmer Fowler, and Lewis Donovan. Bernice is survived by her daughters, Rebecca Bunting (Stanley) and Debra Beasley (Mike Roach); her grandchildren, Christopher Bunting, Jessica Hazzard (Allen), Ellacia “Laci” Christ, Lance Beasley (Zenab), and Laurin Beasley (David Seward); five great-grandchildren, Abby Hazzard, Hadley Christ, Ella Bunting, Phillip Beasley, and Sophie Beasley; four sisters, Nancy Hetz, Sandra Wilhelm (Dale), Clara Miller (Wayne) and Carol Hershberger (Philip), as well as stepdaughters Shirley Hitchens, Peggy Coulbourne (Jim), and Becky Perry, along with their families; and many adoring nieces and nephews.

Bernice attended Meyersdale High School and later earned her GED. A determined and hard-working woman, she successfully passed the civil service examination and began a career as a USDA poultry inspector. She retired after more than 20 years of dedicated service.

Throughout her life, Bernice enjoyed cooking, fishing, boating, and traveling. Thanksgiving was especially meaningful to her, and she lovingly hosted family gatherings for many years. She also treasured summers at Leisure Point and the time spent there with family and friends. Bernice maintained her love of travel throughout her life, including a memorable month, exploring Europe, while her daughter was stationed there with the U.S. Army. Her faith was an important part of her life. Bernice was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Georgetown, where she was blessed with a loving church family and many dear friends.

The family extends its sincere appreciation to the staff and caregivers at The Lodge at Historic Lewes for the compassionate care Bernice received during her final months and for the friendships she formed there.

Bernice’s 98 years were a gift to all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, and her memory will remain a blessing to her family, friends, and church community.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 22860 DuPont Blvd., Georgetown, Delaware, 19947, in Bernice’s memory.

May she rest peacefully, knowing she was deeply loved and will never be forgotten.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Services in Georgetown, Delaware. Online condolences may be shared at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com