Bernice M. Conner, 81 of Essex, passed away peacefully in her sleep in the comfort of her home on Thursday March 9, 2017. Bernice was surrounded by Family who supported her through the final life journey as she succumbed to heart disease. She was born on February 2, 1936 in Unity, NH daughter of the late Roy and Blanche (Paquette) Nelson. Bernice married Robert Conner Sr on September 24, 1955. Bernice graduated from Steven’s High School in 1954. Bernice was a loving Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother who always put her family first. Bernice prided herself on being able to attend many of the children’s ballgames, school events, dance recitals, graduations from kindergarten or college and birthday parties. Bernice was an active member of The American Legion Post #91 Women’s Auxiliary and enjoyed helping with the various children’s parties supported by this group. Bernice worked for several local employers and her fondest memories were those of her employment experiences and the people she met at Gaynes Shopper’s World and Fletcher Allen Health Care. She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years Robert Conner, Sr of Essex and her daughters and their families. She is also survived by 2 sisters Priscilla Swenson (husband Steve) and Eldora Farnsworth (husband Henry) both of New Hampshire and many nieces and nephews scattered throughout the United States. The biggest joy in her life came from her children, grand children and great grand children and they include: Wendy Conner of Essex Junction and her daughters Chelsea Drinkwater and Melissa Skinner and grandchildren Jeren, Nicolai and Emma. Pamela Conner of Essex and her children Broderick Hamilton and Shaina Foran (spouse John) and grandchildren Illyanna, Amelia and Makinley. Lori and Gary Delphia of Waterbury and children David Delphia and Kasey Grout (spouse Kris) and grandchildren Isiah, Colby, Cameron, Alexis and Jacob. Barbara and David Liberty of Colchester and their children Julie Charlton (Spouse Bill) Amy Hamilton, Robb Hamilton, and Francine Liberty and grandchildren Conner, Joseph, Skyler, Marissa, Caitlin, Elaina, Addison, Bentley, Khialyn, Michael, Brooklynn, Kholden and Brixton. Bernice was predeceased by her son Robert Conner, Jr and his wife Rebecca in 2002 and her daughter Lynn M. Conner on October 1, 2005. She was also predeceased by her brother Leonard and sisters Donna and Gloria. Please join us in honoring Bernice’s Life Journey on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at the AW Rich Funeral Home - Essex Chapel, 57 Main Street, Essex Jct., VT. The Family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until the hour of celebration of life beginning at 3:00 p.m. Inurnment will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in Bernice’s memory may be made to The Ladies’ Auxiliary of the American Legion Post #91 in support of children’s activities. The family also invites you to view share your memories and condolences by visiting www.awrfh.com.