In Loving Memory Bernadette Anne Anderson

17th November 1965 - 21st October 2020 Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens Monday 2nd November 2020

“Song of Bernadette” ~ Jennifer Warnes

Welcome Celebrant : Rachel Woods JP

Verse A mother’s love begins before a child is born And lasts through time and difficulties and Differences and many wounds And days of joy, And days of sorrow Winding, wearing, weeping, sharing Changing until, at the end what remains Is that solid core that began as love Before the child was born. Anon

Eulogy Margaret Meibusch

Stephen James

Reflections on Berna’s Life Elizabeth, Catherine, Jolyon, Sam, Mike, Michael, Bev

Mother Berna was above all, a devoted mother to Oliver and Gabriel. Their interests became her interests and her life revolved around them. We hope that they take inspiration from her and care for each other and for their father Stephen in the difficult times ahead. We will always adore and look after these beautiful boys.

Sister I was living in South Australia when Berna first moved to Adelaide to be with Stephen. I remember we shared a hot, fun day at Womadelaide shortly after she arrived. Berna loved listening to music, and it was not quite Easter without a family trip to the National Folk Festival. We would busily consult our programs and try and find a seat to see the next great band or singer, venturing out into the brisk Canberra autumn evenings. Berna was always generous about sharing her own family with me, and it was a privilege to be part of her life. Aunt Berna had thirteen nephews and nieces, who can’t all be here today due to distance and border closures. We particularly remember the gentle way she listened and really tried to understand us. We want Oliver and Gabe to know that they can call on their cousins whenever they need our support in the future. We will miss her greatly, especially when the family gathers for celebrations.

Political and environmental activist Berna had a great social conscience and was strongly opposed to political and social injustice. She was passionate and publicly committed to protecting the environment in her everyday life.

Daughter-in-law I met Bernadette when she moved in with Stephen. I remember the active and community-minded way she tackled life in Adelaide. She joined any group she had any interest in, and applied for any job she had any hope of getting. She shared an interest in my passion; the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, and wrote many articles and letters for them. Berna was always independent and had her own ideas on how to live, how to cope with pregnancy, and the upbringing of children. She home-birthed both her children: Oliver in New Street Adelaide, Gabriel in Murray Street Wagga Wagga. Berna was a wonderful girl, I deeply miss her wry, insightful presence. Cynthia James

Sister-in-law feminist I remember a conversation around the dinner table in Adelaide where Cynthia commented how her sons looked after her. Bernadette interjected, "Don't forget the four dutiful daughters-in- law!" I can't remember if she muttered, "Who do most of the work." But it was hanging in the air for a fellow feminist. Bernadette was outspoken, warm, insightful and definitely had her own way of doing things. Reflection “Fields of Gold” ~ Eva Cassidy The Lord’s Prayer Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be your name, Your kingdom come, yours will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours Now and forever. Amen

Committal

A Celtic Blessing Deep peace of the running wave to you. Deep peace of the quiet earth to you. Deep peace of the shining stars to you. Deep peace of the Son of peace to you.

Conclusion “Sandcastles” ~ A Firm Handshake “Gentle, kind and thoughtful mother and friend” We thank you for your presence here today, and for all your love and support at this time. At the conclusion of the service we invite you to join us in The Gardens Reception Centre for refreshments and the sharing of more memories of our beloved Berna.

2 Station Place, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650, Tel. 0269 218218 All Hours (any copied material herein is by permission granted to our NFDA license)