To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
Obituary
In Loving Memory of
Estrada Jefferson Bernard Sr.
June 1, 1933 - April 13, 2026
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live,
even though they die.” — John 11:25
Estrada Jefferson Bernard Sr. was born on June 1, 1933, in Monrovia, Liberia, to Dolly Clark and Mozart Bernard. From an early age he demonstrated a keen and disciplined mind, completing his secondary education at Patrick High School in Monrovia before pursuing the law at American University in Washington, D.C. — a journey that would carry him far from home and ultimately into a lifetime of distinguished service.
On December 6, 1958, Estrada was united in marriage to Jennie Johnson. Their union was one of remarkable endurance and devotion, spanning 68 years and producing three sons: Estrada Jr., Mozart, and Earl.
Professionally, Estrada Bernard Sr. was a man of consequence. His career in public service began with the Government of Liberia, where he served with distinction in a succession of leadership roles: Legal Counsel at the Department of Public Works, Legal Counsel at the Department of Finance, Assistant Minister of Justice, and Deputy Attorney General. He later rose to serve as Minister of Health and Human Services and Minister of Labor, Youth and Sports — positions that placed him at the heart of his nation’s governance during some of its most formative years.
When the military coup d’état of 1980 upended life in Liberia, Estrada did what strong men do — he adapted. He relocated to the United States, rebuilt his career from the ground up, supported his family through one of its most uncertain seasons, and ensured that each of his three sons received the education and foundation they needed to launch lives of their own. His sacrifice during those years was quiet and steady, and it was total.
In time, Estrada returned to Liberia, where he continued to serve in trusted advisory capacities, including as Legal Advisor to the President of Liberia and as a member of the Board of Directors of the International Bank. When he finally laid down his professional responsibilities for good, he and Jennie settled in Henderson, Nevada, where he spent his final years surrounded by family, at peace, and cherished by all who knew him.
He was blessed with six grandchildren — Carcha, Cara, Carney, Estrada III, Donovan, and Darya — who knew him as a steady, loving presence and who will carry his name and legacy forward. He was a counselor, an advisor, and a mentor to many — a man whose wisdom was sought and whose character commanded respect.
Estrada Jefferson Bernard Sr. passed peacefully at home on April 13, 2026, in the presence of family. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 68 years, Jennie Bernard; his sons Estrada Jr., Mozart, and Earl; his grandchildren Carcha, Cara, Carney, Estrada III, Donovan, and Darya; and a family — and a nation — that is richer for having had him.
He will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family and his lifelong dedication to public service. May he rest in the peace he so faithfully served.
Celebration of Life • June 1, 2026 • Henderson, Nevada
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