Bernadette M. Armitage (nee Rhodes), 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on October 27, 2023. She was the beloved wife and soulmate of 54 years to the late James J. Armitage.

Bernadette was born on November 23, 1940, to the late Edward and Marie Rhodes in Philadelphia, PA.

She enjoyed many hobbies over her lifetime including dancing (especially with her husband as they would tear up any dance floor), playing the piano, painting ceramics, bowling on a league, crocheting, baking, had a love for artwork, music, Broadway musicals, and was an avid volunteer for Archbishop Ryan Marching Band, where her three children were involved. Some of her duties would include publishing articles in newspapers, bus chaperone, walking in parades, uniform and color guard flag seamstress and more. She loved watching and cheering on both the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies. Bernadette and her husband, James, had a passion for traveling with her sister, Josephine and brother-in-law Jim, best friends Maureen and Joe, and the Christ the King groups. Her most precious times were spent with her family, and she adored her grandchildren and great grandchild.

Bernadette graduated from Saint Martin of Tours in 1955, St. Hubert High School in 1958, and Community College of Philadelphia in 1991, achieving an Associate in Applied Science accomplishing Summa Cum Laude and the Dean's List.

Bernadette is survived by her three children, James E., Valerie A. Wilus (Francis) and Karen M. Gerdy (Michael). Loving grandmom to Jessica, Bryan and Kaitlyn. Great-grandmom to Nylah. She is also survived by her sister, Josephine Cole, and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Viewing Friday, November 3, 2023 from 9-10:45 A.M. at Christ the King Church, 3252 Chesterfield Road, Philadelphia, PA 19114.  Funeral Mass 11 A.M.  Interment private.