Obituary of Bernadette Gately

Bernadette Gately passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in Denville, NJ. She had shared 88 years of unconditional love, infectious laughter, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY to the late Mary (Dougherty) and Joseph Gately, Bernadette was the only child to bless their household. She graduated from St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School, Class of 1956. Her father passed when she was a young adult which gave her the unique opportunity to spend quality time with her Mom. They lived together in Douglaston, NY and became the best of friends, often travelling the world on cruise ships. Bernadette remained in Douglaston, NY until 8 years ago, when she moved to Denville, NJ to be with family. Bernadette made a successful career for herself with Grumman Corporation in Bethpage, NY. She had top-secret security status as their Executive Secretary and remained friends with many of her coworkers.

Bernadette was one-of-a-kind. She was the life of every party! Her sense of humor was unmatched. Even when she wasn’t feeling well, she could make you laugh. Her guilty pleasure was spending time at TJ Max; she wasn’t just a Maxxinista, she loved meeting and talking with people in the store. She also loved to watch classic movies and baseball games as a converted Yankees to Mets fan. She enjoyed golfing, bowling, and skiing although hanging out in the lodge may have been her favorite part. Bernadette had a heavy foot, but it matched the sports cars she drove. She was proud to boast about owning a bungalow in Sawkill, NY as her getaway spot. Bernadette beat to her own drum and knew that rules were made to be broken. She was down to earth, genuine, and tons of fun to be around. Anyone who had Bernadette in their life are better people for it. If you would like to honor Bernadette in your own way, think of her this summer while catching rays by the pool, like she loved to do. Put a toast in the sky to her and say, “Cheers to Miss Bishop!” and know that she is shining down, smiling with you.

Although we are saddened by her passing, we take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her parents and many cousins who went before her. She leaves only happy memories to her adored cousin and caregivers, Ellen and Matt Pietrucha; their children, Jack, Maggie and her husband Patrick Sullivan, and Michael; her faithful pups, Tex and Jersey; and many more dear cousins, extended family, and friends.

Relatives and friends are welcome to celebrate Bernadette on Wednesday, June 17^th from 2 – 5 pm with Funeral Service beginning at 4:30 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ. Graveside service will take place on Thursday, June 18^th at 11:30 am at St. Charles / Resurrection Cemeteries, 2015 Wellwood Ave, Farmingdale, NY 11735. Memorial Donations are being accepted to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or by clicking here. Please add a gesture or share your favorite memory of Bernadette here to continue to celebrate her life and let her light shine on.