Obituary of Bernard O'Doherty Williams

Bernie (born Bernard O’Doherty) was born in Dublin, Ireland on July 15, 1951. He was adopted by his parents, Herman and Betty Williams, when he was two months old, and brought to Southern California where he became Bernard O’Doherty Williams. Bernie was a sports enthusiast his entire life. He played basketball at Covina High School and continued his basketball career at Fresno State. He stayed in Fresno after college and met his wife Donna while watching March Madness. They were married in 1982 and had two daughters, Chelsea and Hannah, in 1990 and 1992. In 1995, Bernie received a job opportunity and moved with his family to Las Vegas. And he called Las Vegas home for the last 26 years of his life. Bernie was incredibly hard working and a dedicated and loving father and husband. He was committed to his family and enjoyed all aspects of fatherhood, and through the years coached and managed many of his daughters’ softball teams. Bernie was the life of the party and his laugh was infectious. His charming and sarcastic personality drew people in. On Friday, January 29 th , Bernie passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at the age of 69. He leaves behind his wife of 38 years, Donna Williams; two daughters, Chelsea and Hannah Williams; sisters, Kate LeBlanc and Barbara Gehrkens; his best friend of almost 60 years, Peter Burdon; mother, Betty Williams; stepmother, Audrey Williams. Bernie’s life will be celebrated on what would have been his 70th birthday in July with an intimate family gathering. He will be greatly missed and forever be in our hearts.