Bernadette "Bernie" Ann Pavlitsa

Visitation and Service will still take place on Tuesday January 27th at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church.

Bernadette Ann Pavlitsa, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, in Bel Air, Maryland. She was 85 years old.

Born on April 20, 1940, in Cardale, Pennsylvania, Bernadette—affectionately known as Bernie—was the daughter of the late Henry Joseph Penczak and Anna Marie (Rutkowski) Penczak. She grew up in a close-knit family alongside her siblings Anastasia Moscovits, and Antoinette Peretti and Henry Edward Penczak, who both preceded her in death.

In the 1960s, Bernie left Pennsylvania and moved to Washington, D.C., where she began an exciting chapter of her life. She worked as a secretary for Harry Diamond Laboratories. She also was a hair model at Roberts Hair Salon; her elegance and poise made her a natural fit for the role. It was during this time that she met Ed, with whom she would share many cherished memories over 59 years of marriage.

After moving to Maryland, Bernadette worked as a Librarian at the National Security Agency. Bernie found her true calling as an orthodontist assistant—a career she pursued for decades. Her dedication to her work was matched only by the deep friendships she formed with the women she worked alongside. These relationships became an enduring source of joy and support throughout her life.

A woman of deep faith, Bernie was a devoted Catholic and longtime member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. She was actively involved in parish life through the SFDS Senior Club, serving on several committees for many years. She especially enjoyed weekly meetings with her fellow members and never missed a bingo night—often arriving early with Ed to claim their favorite seats. The annual Christmas party was one of her most anticipated events of the year.

Bernie’s warmth extended far beyond her church community. Her grandchildren lovingly referred to her as the “classic” grandma—loving, caring, kind-hearted, and always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a comforting word. Her home was a haven for family and friends alike—a place where everyone felt welcomed and loved.

She had an unwavering loyalty to those she held dear and maintained lifelong friendships built on trust and compassion. A lifelong animal lover, Bernie’s affection for animals began in childhood and continued throughout her life. Her beloved dog Gracie brought immense joy to her later years.

Bernie is survived by her husband, Edward Joseph, her children Mark (Cynthia) Pavlitsa, Tanya (Mike) Mattes, and Troy Pavlitsa; her grandchildren Megan (Nathaniel) Eiben, Michael (Brianna) Mattes, Ryan Pavlitsa, Alex Mattes, Connor Pavlitsa, Emily Pavlitsa, Mackenzie Pavlitsa, Fletcher Pavlitsa, and Henry Pavlitsa; and her great-granddaughter Everly Eiben.

Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with her kindness and generosity. May Bernadette Ann Pavlitsa’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kaufman Cancer Center https://www.umms.org/uch/giving/make-a-donation-online