Bernice Ruth Bastis-Chiras

Bernice Ruth Bastis-Chiras, 41, of Millbury, formerly of Hudson, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 24, 2016 surrounded by her loving family after a long battle with cancer. Bernice is survived by her husband of three years, John A. Chiras; her step-son, Jake A. Chiras of Millbury; her mother and step-father, Geraldine P. (Bastis) Armstrong and Scot Armstrong; her maternal grandparents who helped raise her, Joseph and Bernice G. Bastis of Queensbury,NY; a brother, David Bastis and his fiancé, Sheri Flynn of Rhode Island; three sisters, Jennifer Morreale of Worcester, Jean Armstrong of Clinton and Amy Armstrong of Ayer; a step-sister, Crystal Armstrong of Natick; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, John W. Chiras and Carole A. Chiras of Millbury; her sister-in-law, Stephanie R. Chiras and her husband James Farley of Austin, TX.; many nieces, nephews and a host of friends. Bernice was born in Boston, Massachusetts and graduated from Natick High School.  Some of her greatest enjoyments were Summers spent on her boat with her mom and friends at Hampton Beach; time spent with all of her family, especially those times in northern Maine.  She especially enjoyed showing her “wild side” while riding her Harley motorcycle.  She worked for many years as a bartender and enjoyed working at the Miss Worcester Diner with her best friend.  She will be most remembered for bringing happiness to all of the people she touched, especially her large circle of friends.  She was able to enjoy numerous adventures with her husband travelling and enjoying life in Aruba, Sturgis and many other destinations.  She enjoyed time with her step-son, Jake and her companion dogs Joseph and Daisey. Her family would like to thank all of the “special angels”, including her medical staff of doctors, nurses, and hospice care people, for their wonderful compassionate care. Funeral Services for Bernice will be held on Saturday, May 28, from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester with a Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Turnpike (route 9 east), Shrewsbury.  Burial will be held privately.  A period of Calling Hours will be held on Friday, May 27, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. in the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making memorial contributions to: American Cancer Society by visiting www.cancer.org or mailing to American Cancer Society of Central New England, 43 Nagog Park, Suite 110, Acton, MA 01720 (please include her name and to whom an acknowledgement should be sent) To share your thoughts and memories of Bernice, please visit her personal guestbook at www.mercadantefuneral.com.