Carol Louise (Burkley) Bernabo, 75, of Blairsville, PA (Derry Twp.), passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 20, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Born on December 22, 1950, in Latrobe, PA, Carol was the beloved daughter of George F. and H. Leona (Dunmire) Burkley.
Carol graduated from Derry Area High School, Class of 1968, and was a faithful member of First Christian Church in Indiana, where she generously shared her time and talents in the kitchen alongside her fellow “Galley Gang” members.
Carol devoted much of her working life to caring for others through her career as a Dental/X-Ray Technician at Torrance State Hospital. Her kindness and strong work ethic were evident in all she did, and she carried that same spirit of service into her community through her volunteer work with Four-Footed Friends in Indiana and as a dedicated support member of the Blairsville Fire Company.
Above all, Carol’s greatest joy was caring for animals. Her love extended to many dogs, cats, horses, and other animals throughout her life. She trained therapy dogs and proudly shared them with nursing homes, schools, and other organizations, bringing comfort, companionship, and smiles to countless people. She was also associated with the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department, where she assisted in efforts to locate illegal substances with her trusted dog by her side.
Carol will be lovingly remembered for her compassionate heart, her willingness to help wherever she was needed, and the many lives—both human and animal—that she touched through her work, volunteer service, and devotion. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Timothy Bernabo, whom she married on June 1, 1978; sister-in-law, T. Diane Burkley; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish her memory.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, George F. Burkley and H. Leona Dunmire, and her brother, George R. “Turk” Burkley, who passed away on March 21, 2022.
Family and friends will be received on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with a funeral service to be held promptly at 7:00 PM at Shoemaker Funeral Home, 49 N. Walnut Street, Blairsville, PA 15717.
Interment will be held privately at Blairsville Cemetery at a later date.
To view the online obituary, sign the guest book and leave condolences, please visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.
