Bernyce Molenda

Born on September 24, 1947, in Bangor, Maine, Bernyce was the daughter of Carlton and Margaret Tilton. She proudly served in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps from November 2, 1969, to November 1, 1970. Following her military service, she dedicated her life to caring for others as a registered nurse, a career she loved until her retirement in 2010.

On July 1, 1972, Bernyce married Theodore Molenda, and together they built a life centered on love and family. They welcomed one son, David, who remained the pride and joy of her life. One of Bernyce's greatest joys in her final year was witnessing David marry Beth on May 14, 2026, a moment she treasured deeply.

Retirement gave Bernyce the opportunity to pursue one of her greatest passions, racing her Corvette. She embraced life with enthusiasm, independence, and a competitive spirit, finding joy not only in racing but also in the friendships she made along the way.

Bernyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Theodore Molenda, and by her parents, Carlton and Margaret Tilton.

She is survived by her son, David Molenda; her daughter-in-law, Beth; and Beth's son, Austin, of Irving, Texas; her brother, Jon Tilton and his wife, Becky, of Inola, Oklahoma, and their children, J.C., Sarah, and Mary O; and her brother, Chris Tilton and his wife, Jean, of Bend, Oregon, and their daughter, Kristen.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the countless memories Bernyce leaves behind—the laughter she shared, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely. Her strength, compassion, and determination will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.

A military honors service will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 1600 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas. Family and friends are invited to attend as they honor Bernyce's life and celebrate the memories she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the charity of your choice.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.