News Summary
Bernice ‘Bernie’ Bazemore Clapp, a respected educator and real estate professional, passed away peacefully at 82. Known for her dedication to education and community service, her legacy includes nurturing her students and actively participating in various community organizations. Bernie’s life was defined by love, commitment, and a strong work ethic, leaving behind a loving family and a lasting impact on her community.
Athens, Georgia – Bernice “Bernie” Bazemore Clapp, a beloved educator and successful real estate professional, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at the age of 82. Her journey ended in Athens, Georgia, where she had moved in later years after spending over fifty years in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Born on December 8, 1942, in Scotland Neck, North Carolina, Bernie moved to Raleigh at the age of six. She graduated from Broughton High School in 1961 and pursued higher education at the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina and later at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. During her college years, she was actively involved in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which further shaped her leadership and social skills.
In 1964, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and began her teaching career at Sherwood Forest Elementary School in Winston-Salem. Known to her students as “Miss Bazemore,” she built lasting relationships with many former students throughout their adult lives, solidifying her legacy as a cherished educator.
In 1967, Bernie married Hubert “Bruce” Clapp, marking the beginning of a dedicated partnership that lasted 54 years. Together, they navigated life with love and commitment until Bruce’s passing.
Bernie’s contributions extended well beyond the classroom. She was deeply embedded in her community as a member of Knollwood Baptist Church, the Arborvitae Garden Club, the Junior League of Winston-Salem, and Forsyth Country Club. She dedicated much of her time to volunteering for various civic and charitable organizations, demonstrating her commitment to service and community building.
In 1988, Bernie obtained her real estate license and enjoyed a successful thirty-year career with Prudential Carolina’s Realty, which is now part of Berkshire Hathaway. Over the years, she gained a reputation for her loyalty, strong work ethic, generosity, compassion, sharp business sense, and an impressive ability to get tasks done efficiently.
Family held a central place in Bernie’s heart. She is survived by her daughter, Catherine Clapp Hardman (Lam) of Athens, GA; her son, John Simpson Clapp (Susan) of Augusta, GA; and her brother, Cyrus William “Bill” Bazemore, Jr. (Louise) of Winston-Salem, NC. Additionally, she leaves behind her brother-in-law, John McRary of Huntsville, AL, and four grandchildren: Catherine Madry Talmadge Hardman, Lamartine Griffin Hardman V, Lillian Hall Clapp, and Ward Simpson Clapp, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Bernie was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Hubert Bruce Clapp, along with her parents, Rev. and Mrs. Cyrus William Bazemore, and several other family members who preceded her in death.
The family expressed their gratitude to Joanne Appling for her loving care and companionship afforded to Bernie over the past four years. A memorial service and celebration of life are scheduled to take place in the fall in Winston-Salem, NC.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed towards Samaritan’s Purse or any charity of the donor’s choosing. Arrangements for Bernie’s services are being handled by Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, West, located in Watkinsville, GA.
Bernie’s life was a testament to the values of education, community service, and family. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her and were touched by her kindness.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Bernice Clapp Obituary
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Legacy: Another Tribute to Bernice Clapp
- Google Search: Education Legacy Winston-Salem
- Legacy: Tributes and Memories
- Google Scholar: Early Childhood Education
- Legacy: Community Contributions of Bernice Clapp
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Service
- Legacy: Bernice Clapp’s Real Estate Career
- Google News: Real Estate Winston-Salem
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