Rene Rivero Bernardo

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Rene “Rey” Bernardo—a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—who was called home to be with the Lord.

Dr. Rene “Rey” BernardoDecember 17, 1951 – April 14, 2025

Dr. Rene Bernardo, affectionately known as Rey, passed away on April 14, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born in Manila, Philippines, on December 17, 1951, Rey was the son of Pedro and Herminia Bernardo. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 1977 from the University of the East, Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center. It was during this time, while studying in the same dentistry program, that he met the love of his life, Mila Bernardo. They were married on June 14, 1976, in Manila.

In September 1979, Rey and Mila moved to the United States, settling in Fairfax, Virginia, where they built a life together and raised their family. Early in their journey, they operated—and later owned—Royale Video in Georgetown, a well-loved fixture in the community for many years.

In the early 2000s, Rey returned to school and became a certified X-ray technician. He dedicated the next chapter of his career to caring for patients at Virginia Hospital Center Urgent Care and served as the X-ray Supervisor at Providence Hospital. Rey retired from both roles in June 2017, closing a long and meaningful chapter of service in healthcare.

Rey and Mila were longtime members of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in Fairfax, where their faith and community remained a grounding presence in their lives.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Mila Bernardo; his daughters, Remi-Rose Martin (Seth) and Katherine Conklin (Drew); and his grandson, Samuel Rey Conklin, who brought him immense joy in his later years.

His greatest joy in life was being married to his beloved Mila, raising his two accomplished daughters, and becoming “Lolo” to his grandson, Samuel Rey, who proudly carries his name.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pedro and Herminia Bernardo. Rey was one of twelve siblings, four of whom preceded him in death: Leonor B. Narciso, Elisa B. Pakingan, Virginia R. Orren, and Maria Luz Elvira R. Bernardo. He is survived by his loving siblings: Lourdes B. Dionisio (Macairog), Lorna B. Jackson (Gary), Carmencita B. Malizon (Teofilo), Pedro R. Bernardo (Emily), Lydia B. McAtee (Bob), Zenaida B. Gavieres (Vincent), and Noel R. Bernardo (Lydia). He is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews—each of whom he held dear with warmth and pride.

Rey will be remembered for his quiet strength, humility, and deep devotion to those he loved. His life was one of grace and enduring familial pride.

Visitation will be held for family and friends on Saturday, April 19, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at Advent Funeral Home in Falls Church, Virginia. A Catholic Mass in celebration of Rey’s life will be held at a later date at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in Fairfax.