Bernice Beyer
Bernice Beyer died peacefully, surrounded by family and dear friends, on Aug. 17, 2018, in Tulsa at the age of 70.
Bernice is survived by her husband, Douglas Beyer; son, David Smith and his wife, Rachel; son, Michael Smith and his wife, Teresa; daughter, Shannon Lepp; son, Nicholas Andrew Beyer; son-in-law, Ronald Lepp; grandchildren, Nathan, Stephanie, Joshua, Hailey, Tyler, Trever, Aurora, Kenda, Mary Ann, Ashley and Jose; great-grandchildren, Peyton, Henry, Kristopher, Kassidy, Ayden and Ayla; sister, Joyce Turner and her husband, Jerry; and multiple other family members and friends who loved her very deeply.
She was preceded in death by her father, Vannie Kemp; mother, Martha Kemp; brother, Robert Kemp and granddaughter, Kassandra Smith.
Bernice was born at home on Nov. 13, 1947, in Keota to Vannie and Martha Kemp. She attended Keota High School and later obtained her GED in 1981.
She married Bill Smith in 1962 and became the proud mother of David in 1964 and Michael in 1968. The couple later divorced. Bernice was a strong, dedicated mother, to not only her kids, but to their friends as well. She was active in cub scouts and supported her boys in sports. She was a hard worker. She spent much of her career life in retail management. On April 5, 1988, Bernice married Douglas Erick Beyer of Tulsa. At this time she welcomed Doug’s children, Shannon and Andy Beyer, and loved them as her own. Doug and Bernice began an exciting journey together as a truck driver team in 1990. They saw much of the United States and a portion of Canada together and always came home with extraordinary stories and pictures. Doug and Bernice celebrated 30 years of marriage this year.
Bernice was passionate about her family and friends, OU Football, the Atlanta Braves, story-telling, NASCAR, Dale Earnhardt, camping, fishing, hunting and chocolate. Her children remember her as a mother who was spirited, fun-loving, jolly, kind, mostly patient, a little stubborn, sincere, caring, an avid card player and adventurous. She always encouraged them to pursue their goals and loved them unconditionally.
The family would like to thank the team of physicians, nurses and ancillary staff at Hillcrest Medical Center Tulsa for their efforts, care and dedication.
Bernice chose to be cremated. A memorial service will follow at a later date. The family is grateful for the condolences and donations received, but requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the charity of your choice.
Cremation is under the direction of Mallory-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory in Stigler.