Bernard "Bernie" Masters

June 3, 1932 - March 2, 2019

Bernard "Bernie" Masters (86) passed away March 2, 2019 at the Bailey Family Center for Caring. He is preceded in death by his son, Ronald Allen Masters, 21 Sept. 56. He is survived by his wife, Helen, daughter Cheryl (Steve) Thigpen, sons, David and Paul (Gwynne) Masters, grandchildren, Ashley Kent and Jennifer Schanke and seven great grandchildren. Born and raised in St. Augustine, Bernie graduated from Ketterlinus High School in 1950. His higher education was at the University of Florida, Jacksonville University and North Florida University. He entered the US Navy in 1953 as an Aviation Electronic Technician, met and married Helen Louise (Ferry) Masters while in the Navy in Corpus Christi Texas on 7 May 1955. They came back to St. Augustine and he worked in the family construction business until 1970. He was instrumental in setting up the St. Augustine Technical Center. He was the first Masonry Instructor of the Center and held the job for 3-4 years before becoming the "Division Head" of Building Trades. He retired as the Principle of the Putnam Satellite Technical School before retiring in June 1994 with 26 years in the St. Johns County School System. He was a lifelong member of the Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church and is a Past Exalted Ruler of the Elks BPOE 829. He volunteered at the Church Gardens, Huguenot Cemetery and the Habitat for Humanity. His passion during retirement was wood working and enjoying time with his family. The family would like to give special thanks to Sara Warren and Mary Matthews (Dad's Community Hospice Nurses) and the Bailey Center for their compassion and care. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the staff of the Riverside Cottages at the Shores. Their love and concern was evident which gave the family comfort knowing that he was in good hands. A memorial service will be held 11AM Thursday, March 14 at Craig Funeral Home followed by and interment at Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church and a reception at the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers those wishing may make a donation in his memory to Community Hospice of Northeast Florida. (communityhospice.com)