Conrad M. Bernier

Conrad Martin Bernier 

Conrad was born on January 22, 1932, in New York City, NY to Arthur St John Bernier I and Viola Herbert-Bernier. He is the second of four siblings, Arthur II, Barbara, and Randolph. Conrad went home to be with our Lord on January 2, 2023.

Conrad spent his early years in Harlem, NY, and received his High School Diploma from Benjamin Franklin High School. He witnessed Frank Sinatra, one of the world's most recognized vocalists, perform the reconciliatory song 'Aren't You Glad You're You?' which further ignited Conrad's love for music. Conrad was affectionately known as "Connie" to his family and friends. He loved spending his summers in Bridgehampton and South Hampton, NY with his grandmother, "PI" Edith Bernier.

Upon graduation, Conrad went on to Morgan State University and continued onward to serve in the United States Army in the Korean War. Upon his return, he went into real estate and general contracting. During this time, he met Phyllis Hendricks, and they embarked on an exquisite journey of love in which they traveled the globe together. In 1964 they dedicated their lives to one another in holy matrimony and within a year they were blessed with their only child Monique Viola Bernier; born on April 24th, 1965. He would continue to be a devoted patriarch for his family.

Conrad was known as a "foodie" an excellent amateur chef specializing in fusion cuisine. Some of his favorite dishes were grilled fillet mignon generously well-done with baked potatoes with lavish amounts of butter or Jerk chicken, rice and peas, and fried plantains. His desserts of choice were Jamaican Christmas cake or freshly baked sweet potato pie accentuated with a scoop of rum and raisin. Conrad's classic drink was a tall, chilled glass of Pepsi with light crushed ice.

Conrad was known for being a charismatic storyteller and a skilled musician. He was a patron of the arts, especially music, however, Jazz music was his heartbeat. Conrad was a professional saxophonist, with a flair for the Alto saxophone. During Conrad's later years, he bestowed a love for music on his granddaughter, Domonique. He taught her how to read music, and play the piano, and encouraged her to find her own passion for the arts.

Conrad was an avid fan of sports, although he was a true fanatic for basketball. His favorite sports teams were the New York Knicks and the Miami Heat, especially during those rival games in the playoff season. Conrad shared a special connection with horses and even owned a racehorse at one point. Horses play an important role in his life, providing him with love, courage, and happiness. The foremost joy of being with horses is that it brought Conrad in touch with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit, and freedom.

Conrad is survived by his daughter Monique and beloved granddaughter Domonique, brother Randolph, and Sister-in-Law Gale, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews, cousins, and friends.