Bernice V. Pridge

Wasilla resident Bernice V. Pridgen, 62, died Dec. 24, 2010, at her home in Wasilla following a valiant struggle with pulmonary fibrosis.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Dec. 31 at the Kingdom Hall, 900 North Star Circle, Wasilla. Visitation is from 4 to 7 p.m., Dec. 29 at Valley Funeral Home, 151 E. Herning Avenue in Wasilla.

Bernice was born March 18, 1948, in Mardela Springs, M.D., the daughter of Samuel J. Carnegie Sr. and Elizabeth Goodwin. In 1981, her family moved to Alaska and she has resided in both Wasilla and Anchorage. From 1981 to 2004, she worked in the transportation department of the Anchorage School District. One of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Bernice loved cooking, sightseeing, traveling, fine wine, listening to music and the special time she spent with her family.

Of Bernice, her family wrote: “Bernice will always be remembered by family and friends for her radiant smile, kind heart and joyous personality. We will forever remember her daredevil tenacity — such as the time she impulsively took a drive across Wasilla Lake. Her strength and perseverance in life throughout her time of illness will always be remembered by all who knew and loved her.”

Bernice’s primary role was serving as mother and a supportive and loving wife to 1st Sgt. Fred A. Pridgen, who survives in the family home in Wasilla. She is also survived by her daughters, Juanetta, Vicki and Felica, all of Wasilla; her grandson, Anthony of Anchorage; her granddaughters, Sherina of Anchorage and Treneissa, both of Wasilla; her mother, Elizabeth Goodwin of Wasilla; and her siblings, Samuel J. Carnegie Jr., Sandra, Reginald, Wallace, June, Cheryl, Marty and Vinette.

Preceding her in death were her father, Samuel J. Carnegie Sr.; her brother, Thomas; and her sister, Carolyn.

Valley Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements