Bernita Marie (Murphy) Pederson

life story

About Bea

Bernita, affectionately known as “Bea” to many, joined our Lord on June 24, 2025. She was born on August 25, 1939, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to George and Bernice Murphy. One of five siblings, she was preceded in death by her parents and beloved brothers, Jimmy and Denny. She is survived by her sisters Geraldine Keilen and Elaine Tracy (Bill).

In 1959, Bea married her high school sweetheart, Roger Pederson. Together, they built a life centered on love, laughter, and family, raising three children: Chris (Patti Spencer), Jeff, and Denise Evans (Charlie Pizel). She was a proud grandmother to Elijah Evans, who lovingly called her “Jama”—a role she cherished deeply.

Bea retired after an incredible 40-year career as an executive assistant at 3M, where she made many lifelong friends. Whether it was playing cards at lunch or simply sharing a laugh, she had a way of bringing warmth and fun to every room.

After retirement, Bea and Roger turned their cozy two-bedroom cabin in Webster, Wisconsin—fondly referred to as “God’s Country”—into their full-time home. They also spent cherished winters in Destin, Florida, where sunny days were filled with golf, card games, and the company of dear friends.

Bea was known far and wide for her legendary homemade tacos and tamales, her uncanny luck at cards, and her love of music—especially in recent years, when a good beat would get her tapping along with joy.

She spent her final days wrapped in comfort and love at Our Lady of Peace in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Bea’s legacy lives on through the family and friends who loved her—and through every perfectly fried taco shell and every heartfelt “tap, tap, tap.”

Plans for a Celebration of Life are underway and will be shared with loved ones once finalized.

memorial service

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services