Bernice K. Brady

Bernice (Kowaleski) Brady, 96, of Bristol, CT, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 23, 2025. She was the loving wife of the late William Richard Edward Brady for nearly 54 years.

Bernice was born in Meriden, CT on December 10, 1928, one of four daughters, to the late Stanley and Mary (Mikosz) Kowaleski. She grew up in Plantsville, CT and graduated from Lewis High School. At the age of 18, moved to NYC to be a model where she met her husband Bill. Bernice and Bill lived in many different places including New York, New Jersey, Missouri and Florida. Most recently, Bernice moved back to Connecticut to be closer to her family. Bernice had a long rewarding career working with special needs children, retiring at the age of 90. She worked at Bergin Community College in New Jersey and Bee Alive. Bernice enjoyed quilting, needlepoint and was a member of the Paramus Garden Club in New Jersey.

Bernice is survived by her daughter, Lisa P. Brady of Bristol, nine grandchildren, Lisa Bailey, Andrea Crooker (Ryan), William R. Bailey, Alice Brady (Chris), Oliver Brady, James Brady (Cathy), Kristyn Mastrianni (Kevin), Steven Haemmerle, and Chris Ottogali (Lauren) and 15 great- grandchildren, Richard, Landon, Keelia, Amberlyn, Everleigh, Louie, Amelia, Lyla, Erua, Art, Kaylei, Mikey, Luna, Reya, and Odin. She is also survived by her sister, Helen Kusek of Southington, daughter-in-law, Lizzie Brady of Wales and son-in-law, Tom Ottogalli of FL and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband Bill, Bernice was predeceased by her son, William K. Brady, her daughter, Susan P. Ottogalli and two sisters, Jennie Cyr (Roland) and Nellie Olszak (Frank) and one brother-in-law, Edward Kusek.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bernice’s memory may be made to the Special Olympics (https://www.specialolympics.org).

A Celebration of Bernice’s life will be held at a later date. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.