Bernice Hakey

SWANTON – Bernice Agnes (Learned) Hakey, passed away on October 23rd, 2025 after a short illness.

Bernice was born on December 14, 1935 in Westford, Vermont, the daughter of the late Girard and Agnes (Boozan) Learned. She grew up on a farm, attended primary school in Westford, and graduated as valedictorian from BFA Fairfax in 1953.

She met her husband John Nelson Hakey while attending Johnson State College. She married John on June 23rd, 1956 and graduated in 1957. Bernice was a substitute teacher and tutor in the Swanton school district.

Bernice and John raised four children, David (Kathryn) Hakey, Diane (Keith Collins) Hakey, Janet Hakey-Brusgul (Justin) and Thomas (Pam) Hakey, in a house filled with love. Bernice is survived by six grandchildren: Christopher Hakey (Marla Keene), Michele Hakey, Olivia (Jose) Hernandez, Owen (Meagan) Hakey, Alek Brusgul, and Samuel Collins. She was also blessed with two great grandchildren, Lilly and John Hakey. Her close family friend Rose Orr was an addition to her family gatherings. She is survived by her sisters, Margaret Woodworth of Westford, Arlene Brown of Fairfax, and many nieces and nephews. Bernice was predeceased by her husband John, parents, Girard and Agnes Learned, brothers; Ralph, Elmer, Aaron, John, and Arnold Learned; sisters, Dorothy Root, Marcia Wilkinson and Mary Learned.

Bernice’s family was her top priority. She was known for her loving and supportive nature. She was a wonderful listener and had a great sense of humor. She loved watching pro tennis and could tell you all about the players. She was a talented seamstress who made her own wedding dress as well as clothes and costumes for her children. Bernice enjoyed playing cards, building puzzles, word searches and crosswords. She loved visits from her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Independence was important to Bernice and she lived in her own home until her recent illness. Prior to his passing, Bernice and John enjoyed fishing and gardening.

Friends and family are invited to Bernice’s life celebration to include a visitation on Saturday, November 1st, 2025 from 11:00AM to 12 PM with a funeral service following at 12PM at the Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton, VT 05488. Interment will follow in Highgate Center Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Age Well of Vermont, Designated to Meals on Wheels: Age Well of Franklin County, 228 North Main Street, St. Albans, Vermont or agewellvt.org

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com