Bernard “Bernie” William Fletcher Jr. of St Augustine FL passed away at The Oaks Scenic View Nursing Facility in Baldwin Ga on May 21, 2016 at the age of 87. Bernie was born in Clarion PA and resided in DuBois PA in his early years. Bernie was a 1947 graduate from St Catherine’s Catholic High School in DuBois.
Bernie was recently predeceased by his wife of 67 years Ann, his parents Bernard and Agnes of DuBois, Brother George (Bucky) Fletcher of DuBois, Sister Rose Mary Richey of Mooresville NC and daughter in law Charlene Fletcher (Fred).
Bernie is lovingly remembered by his children, Fred (Linda) of Flowery Branch GA, Robert (Jan) of Hastings FL, Richard and Mary Kay (Edmund) Correia of St Augustine. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren in addition to a brother James (Dolly) of Yuba City CA.
Bernie enjoyed automobile racing and NASCAR in particular. In the mid-fifties Bernie worked as crew member for the late Walt Chapman on one of the Fabulous Hudson Hornets with driver Dick Rathmann.
Bernie was active in the automobile business having begun his career as a wash boy at age 15 with Wheelock Buick in DuBois and having worked for or managed several dealerships including Banta Brothers Pontiac, Fort Marion Chevrolet and Jack Wilson Chevrolet of St. Augustine. He also owned various used car lots and rental businesses in St. Augustine.
The celebration of life will be held at Corpus Christie Catholic Church, 6175 Datil Pepper Road., St Augustine on July 1, 2016 At 11:00 AM with Father William C. Mooney officiating. Reception to follow the service; both service and reception will be in the Community Hall located behind the church. Interment will be at a later date at Morningside Cemetery in DuBois.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Corpus Christi Catholic Church of St Augustine or the St Augustine Humane Society.
Messages to the family can be sent to Fletcher Family, 6245 Saddlehorse Drive, Flowery Branch, GA 30542.
Local arrangements are in the care of Whitfield Funeral Home & Crematory, South Chapel, Baldwin, Georgia.
