Bernadine Teague was born on November 11, 1930, on a farm in Laurens, SC.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Mamie and Robert L Teague; her four sisters: Harriet, Helen, Rachael, and Ruby; and her daughter Fay C. Somervill.

Bernadine  is survived by her brother: Robert Teague (wife Trudy) of Raleigh, NC; two grandsons: Seth C. Somervill (wife Elizabeth) of Newport News, VA and Charles T. Somervill (wife Jamie) of Wichita, KS; and three great grandchildren: Alexandra R. Somervill of Richmond, VA and Zachary T. Somervill and Bella F. Somervill of Wichita, KS.

Bernadine graduated from Laurens High School and then received a nursing degree from Elizabeth Buxton Hospital and Nursing School in Newport News, Virginia. Later, she received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the Medical College of Virginia. She spent most of her career as a registered nurse with the Fort Monroe Army Hospital.

After her career in nursing, Bernadine built a successful business in rental properties. She also loved horses. And with her late business partner, Stephen Cyganik, they raced Grand Fox and ran Briar Mar stables in Suffolk, VA.

However, her obsession was with Poplar Grove Estate and Tide Mill in Mathews, VA. She also worked for the recognition of women in history. Specifically, Captain Sally Tompkins, who was born at Poplar Grove and served as a nurse during the American Civil War.

The memorial service will be held Saturday, April 22, 2023, 11:30 a.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, VA 23601. A reception will follow from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.

 In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to MCV Foundation at https://www.mcvfoundation.org/give/tributes-and-memorials.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.