The community of Wilkes-Barre mourns the loss of a cherished figure, Bernice J. Yencha, who passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on February 24, 2026. Surrounded by her family, she departed this life at her home following a recent illness. Mrs. Yencha is remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who made a significant impact on the lives of many.
Born on January 17, 1943, in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Anthony J. and Justina (Papson) Brown and the stepdaughter of the late Mary Brown. After completing her education in the local schools, Mrs. Yencha graduated in 1960 from the former James M. Coughlin High School. She later pursued her passion for beauty, graduating at the top of her class from the Empire Beauty School in Wilkes-Barre.
For many years, Bernice operated her beloved home-based business, Bernice’s Hair Salon, in Miners Mills. Through her artistry and kind spirit, she transformed not just hairstyles but also the lives of her clients, fostering lasting friendships within the community.
As her family grew, Bernice dedicated herself to being a nurturing homemaker. Her unwavering support and love shaped the lives of her children and husband, Edward P. Yencha. The couple celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on April 24, 2025.
Community Involvement and Faith
Mrs. Yencha’s faith was a central part of her life. A devout Roman Catholic, she was a member of Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Plains Township. She also served as president of the Altar and Rosary Society at the former Saint John the Baptist Parish in Miners Mills, demonstrating her commitment to both her faith and community.
In addition to her professional and familial roles, Bernice found joy in crocheting, creating hundreds of welcome blankets for newborns in regional neonatal intensive care units. Her daughter, a physician, benefited from Bernice’s heartfelt contributions to the community.
Bernice is remembered fondly by her family and numerous friends. She leaves behind her beloved husband Edward, their children Edward P. Yencha II of Cartersville, GA; Dr. Erika M. Yencha and her husband George Kerper III of Macungie, PA; Tara M. Yurko and her husband Phillip of Schwenksville, PA; Jessikah A. Galica and her husband Jeffrey of Nazareth, PA; and Matthew J. Yencha and his wife Sarah of Coplay, PA. She is also survived by her grandchildren, including Matthew, Jonathan, Elizabeth, Annabella, Cassidy, Lukas, Audrey, Gideon, Emilia, Olivia, and Henry, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and former clients.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for Mrs. Yencha will be held on March 2, 2026, with a funeral Mass at 9:30 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Parish, located at 13 Hudson Road, Plains Township. The Reverend John C. Lambert, pastor, will officiate the service. Attendees are asked to assemble directly at the church.
Interment, accompanied by the Rite of Committal, will take place at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Roman Catholic Cemetery in Dallas. Relatives and friends are invited to join the Yencha family for visitation and shared memories on March 1, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the John V. Morris Family Funeral Home Inc., located at 625 North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bernice’s memory to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Contributions can be sent to P.O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN 38101 or made online at www.stjude.org. Those wishing to share memories or condolences are encouraged to visit her memorial page at www.JohnVMorrisFuneralHome.com.
Bernice J. Yencha will be deeply missed, remembered for her unwavering love, kindness, and the many lives she touched throughout her remarkable journey.
