William S. Berni, a dedicated family man, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, on Friday, December 12, 2025, in Morristown, New Jersey. Born on May 18, 1938, in Jersey City, NJ, William embodied the spirit of generosity and love for his family, friends, and community throughout his life.
He served honorably as a Staff Sergeant in the New Jersey National Guard, an experience that further instilled in him the values of discipline and camaraderie. Following his military service, he transitioned into a fulfilling career as an installer for the New Jersey Bell Telephone Company, where he was known for his reliability and commitment to his work.
William was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Carol Edna Berni. Together, they nurtured a thriving family, which includes his cherished children, Joi Gruenberg and her husband, Steven of Holland Township, NJ, son, William Berni, and his fiancée Kellie Young of Bear, DE. and daughter Jane Orlando and her husband Gordon Frank of Toms River, NJ. His family extended with love through his grandchildren: Jason Perkins and his wife Ashley, Kyle Perkins, Brittany Korgan and her husband Kent, William Berni and his wife Summer, Nathaniel Gruenberg and his fiancée Cassandra Rogers, and Abigail Gruenberg. He was overjoyed to be blessed with his great-grandchildren: Charlotte Berni, James Perkins and Calvin Berni, and Adam Lewis. William is also survived by his brother Alan Berni and sister-in-law Pamela Berni, as well as many nieces and nephews who will cherish the memory of their uncle with great fondness for the wonderful man that was so impactful in their lives.
Retiring early at the age of 54, William could be found indulging in his hobbies as an avid fisherman, savoring the thrill of a day on the shore hoping to catch a whopper. He had a keen interest in reading books, puzzles, and Sudoku, which kept his mind sharp and engaged throughout his life. His true love was his wife Carol, and the wonderful family that they created.
The Berni family invites all who knew William to join in celebrating his life and legacy. Visitation services will take place on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM and again from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, located at 147 Main St, Flemington, NJ. A funeral service will also be held at the same location, beginning at 7:30 PM on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The following day, Friday, December 19, 2025, a graveside service will be conducted at George Washington Memorial Park, 234 Paramus Road, Paramus, NJ, commencing at 11:00 AM.
William S. Berni will be missed profoundly by all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His enduring spirit and unconditional love for his family will live on in their hearts forever.
Memorial contributions in William's name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude PL., Memphis, TN 38105 OR by clicking the link below.
For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.
Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home
Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home
Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home
George Washington Memorial Park
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