A loyal and much respected community leader was found deceased in his home on Monday morning when his wife attempted to awaken him. Gilbert Bernardo, 63, will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and many students he taught.

A dear friend, Dick Bryant told the News, “he appeared to pass peacefully in his sleep.”

Bernardo was born in Tampa, Sept. 2, 1943. He and his family moved to Branford in 1977 from St. Petersburg. He was a retired educator, having taught many of his 30 years in local schools. He retired from Branford Elementary School in 2003. While teaching in Branford he was named Teacher of the Year multiple times, and was Suwannee County Teacher of the Year, making the finalist list for Florida Teacher of the Year.

Bryant said of his friend, “he was a true renaissance man having a gifted intellect as well as the ability to work with his hands. He had many talents including being a master gardener, a naturalist, and an outstanding black and white photographer. He was active with the Branford River Reunion celebration and served as co-chairman for the past few years. He was primarily responsible for the July 4th fireworks, and taught and trained members of Branford Volunteer Fire department and Ranchette department in preparation for the event each year.

He was active in the Branford Camera Club, Alachua Astronomy Club in addition to working tirelessly on other community projects. He attended the First Presbyterian Church of Alachua.

Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Dorothy Bernardo; a daughter, Priscilla Bernardo-Drugge and Karl of Sorrento; a sister, Louise Walker of Tampa, and a brother Albert Bernardo of Ft. Pierce.

A private family memorial service will be held, with a community memorial service to be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Gulf Specimen Marine Labs, Inc. 222 Clark Drive, Panacea, Florida, 32346-2340. Daniels Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.