Bernadette Ann Fortune Pettine

It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Bernadette Ann Fortune Pettine on January 22nd. A devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and cherished great-grandmother, Bernadette was a remarkable woman known for her intelligence, grace, and quiet strength.

Bernadette is survived by her children, Benett Conway Pettine and his wife, Ali Jarosh, and Hilary Fortune Callinan, and her husband, Freddie. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Derek Pettine, Evan Pettine and his wife, Gina, Dylan Pettine, Charlize Noyes, and Piper Noyes, as well as her great-grandchildren, Brooks Pettine and Sienna Pettine. She also leaves behind extended family and dear friends who will hold her memory close to their hearts.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Anthony Pettine; her parents, Harold and Mae Fortune; her sister, Janis Fortune Wilson; her brother-in-law, James Wilson; and her daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Bebout Pettine.

Born in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, Bernadette had a sharp mind and a strong will from the start. She graduated from the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur in Villanova, PA, in 1947 and earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and French in 1951 from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia. She later pursued postgraduate studies at Villanova University from 1954 to 1955, solidifying her lifelong love of learning and language.

On December 27, 1958, Bernadette married Charles Pettine on a snowy winter’s day at St. Ann’s in Phoenixville. She was drawn to his gentle demeanor and steadfast ways, qualities that complemented her propriety and grace as a true lady. Together, they built a life centered on family, education, and faith, raising their children in King of Prussia. 

Bernadette’s career as an educator began at St. Joseph’s School for Girls in Norristown, PA, where she taught grades 7 and 8. She went on to teach at Stewart Junior High School from 1957 to 1960. Later in life, she continued to share her knowledge and love of language as a homebound teacher and ESL instructor for adults for nearly 20 years.

Bernadette was a kind and private woman who valued honesty and self-reliance. She encouraged her family to pursue their goals with faith and integrity. She had a deep appreciation for the arts, theater, and nature, often finding peace on long walks through Valley Forge Park. Her wit and love of conversation left a lasting impression on all who knew her, and her strong, independent spirit inspired those around her.

The Pettine family extends their gratitude to St. Martha’s for their compassionate care during Bernadette’s final years.

A celebration of Bernadette’s life will be held at a later date, with details to follow. In her honor, the family encourages donations to a charity of your choice or taking a reflective walk in nature as Bernadette so often did.

Her legacy of quiet strength, kindness, and wisdom will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her.