Bernadette Francoise Christensen

Bernadette Francoise Christensen (née Vernou), age 78, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025, in Santa Clara, California. Born on July 4, 1946, in Limoges, France, Bernadette lived a life marked by deep faith, cultural richness, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Raised in the Catholic tradition, Bernadette experienced a profound spiritual transformation in the early 1960s when her family became the first in their hometown to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Her commitment to her newfound faith was steadfast; she shared the gospel with others in Limoges and helped establish a lasting legacy of church membership in her community. Her belief in Jesus Christ as her eternal Savior sustained her through life’s trials, including the loss of her beloved husband Robert Christensen to brain cancer in 2005.

Bernadette completed high school in France and began vocational training as a nurse before marrying Robert. In 1968, she moved to the United States where she embraced a new culture with determination and grace. She taught herself English—both spoken and written—and developed a deep love for reading in her adopted language. At home, French remained an important part of daily life, ensuring that her daughter Stephanie stayed connected to her mother’s heritage and extended family.

A woman of many passions, Bernadette was known for her tender heart and compassion for those who suffered, especially children. Her love for nature was evident in the time she spent cultivating her garden, where Double Delight Roses—her favorite—bloomed under her careful attention. She found joy in music and culture, particularly opera and singing, and delighted in hosting French-style dinners that reflected both her culinary skill and warm hospitality.

Bernadette’s love extended beyond people to animals; she cherished her dogs Jolie, Malory, and Sweet Pea. She enjoyed long walks with dear friends Juanita and Ingrid until health challenges made those outings more difficult. Despite these limitations, she remained a devoted mother, a wonderful teacher, and a loyal friend whose kindness touched many lives.

She is survived by her loving daughter Stephanie; sister Pierrette; brother Michel and his wife Ghislene; nieces Aurelie (Cyril), Patricia (Bill), Barbara (Brian); nephews Mathieu, Guy (Sukie), Ron, and David; as well as numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert Christensen; parents Andre and Lea; and brothers Mario and Bernard.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 10:30 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints located at 3080 South Kenwood St., Salt Lake City, Utah 84106. Interment will follow at Murray City Cemetery, 5490 South Vine St., Murray, Utah 84107 at 12:00 PM.

In honor of Bernadette’s compassionate spirit and lifelong concern for children in need, the family requests that donations be made to Save the Children in her name.

May Bernadette’s memory be a source of comfort to all who knew and loved her.

Those wishing to view the service via Zoom can click "Watch Service" or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89737939090