Bernard J. Bevis

ATHOL- Bernard J. Bevis, 67, of Athol, died Thursday, August 23, in his home, after an illness. Bernard was born July 26, 1951, in Athol, son of Mary (Battani) Bevis and the late Merley Bevis and has lived in Athol all his life. He graduated from Athol High School in 1969. Mr. Bevis worked as a direct care provider for the MA Department of Developmental Disabilities. He had previously worked at S. Bent in Gardner and as a security guard at the former Sheraton and Searstown Mall, both in Leominster. Bernard loved nature, animals, especially dogs, fishing, and camping in his younger years. He had an appreciation of the little things in life. He was a family man with a heart of gold. Bernard was an avid Yankees fan and enjoyed NASCAR. Besides his mother, Mary Bevis, he leaves his wife of 11 wonderful years, Rosemary (Shumway) Bevis; five daughters, Brittanie Bevis of Athol, Jessica Moulton of Athol, Michelle Banks of Wells, ME, Karen White of White River Junction, VT, and Melissa Croze of Athol; six grandchildren, Shannyn, Demetria, Merrick, Kelly, Amber, and Dylan; one great grandson, Vincent; one great granddaughter Emma; two brothers, Brian Bevis of Orange and Bruce Bevis and his wife, Anita of Athol; several aunts, uncles, and cousins. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. To send an online condolence, please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com. Funeral services are private with the assistance of Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home, 146 Main St., Athol.