Bernard Paul Frawley

After a period of failing health, Bernard Frawley, passed away peacefully, at home, on Monday, June 23rd, 2025, in his 98th year.  He spent his final days surrounded, and knowing he was loved by, family, friends, and his dogs.  Born in East Saint John, in 1928, Bernard was the son of James and Mary (Boucher) Frawley.  When Bernard was eleven, the family moved to Enniskillen where he worked on the family farm as a woodsman in order to help support his family.  After the expropriation of their land, in 1952, the family returned to Saint John and it was in this same year that Bernard married the love of his life, Mary (Moran).  They settled, first in the South End and eventually returned to East Saint John. 

Bernard became qualified as a plumber and a pipe fitter working for Grannan Plumbing and Heating and eventually for what was then the District 20 School Board in Saint John.  He was a long time member of Stella Maris Church and the Knights of Columbus, at one time serving as the Grand Knight of Council 6595. 

Bernard and Mary loved to travel and enjoyed many trips in their retirement; some of his favourites being Alaska and Ireland.  They also enjoyed many smaller trips with close friends; countless camping trips with their children and later, granddaughter, Laura; and many a journey to Ontario to watch grandchildren, Eryn and Matt play a basketball game or perform on a stage.  Bernard and Mary loved being grandparents – they were up for anything and there was very little they missed. 

Bernard is survived by his daughters, Ann Sears and Bernadette Frawley, both of Saint John; his son, Paul (Beth) of Fredericton; granddaughters Laura Forgrave (Chris) of Saint John, and Eryn Frawley (Rob de Bruyn) of Ottawa; grandson Matt Frawley (Samantha) of Halifax; sisters Mary Merrithew (late Don), Jean O’Neill, Irene McFarlane (late Bud), and Doreen Davidson (Ed); chosen family members, Christina Vibert, Brayden Sullivan, and Wendy Kunitzky; long time care giver Linda Leblanc; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and canine companions. 

Besides his parents, and wife, Mary, Bernard was pre-deceased by his brothers, Jimmy (late Rose), Roy, Albert (late Doreen); sister Audrey McKiel (late Bob); and two infant brothers. 

The family would like to thank the many friends who have offered support in the past few days, weeks, and months; Dr. Mackin and Dr. Ferguson at the SJRH, Dr. van Niekerk, Fr. D. McNeill, Bernard’s many homecare workers and extra mural nurses, especially Savanna.

Visitation will take place on Friday, August 22nd, from 4-8 pm at Fundy Funeral Home, Westmorland Rd., Saint John.  A funeral mass will take place Saturday, August 23rd, at 10 am, at Stella Maris Church, Bayside Drive, with a reception to follow at the church.

In honour of Bernard, donations can be made to the Saint John Animal Rescue League or a charity of the donor’s choice.