Bernie Joseph McGlinchey
October 15, 1957 ~ July 10, 2026
Born in:
Lowell, MA
Resided in:
Fairview, NC
Asheville Butterfly TrailThe world lost a beautiful, kind spirit when Bernard “Bernie” Joseph McGlinchey, 68, passed away on July 10, 2026 in Fairview, North Carolina.
Bernie is survived by his father, Bernard Joseph McGlinchey; brother, Gary McGlinchey; sister, Laurie McGlinchey; and nieces and nephews, Caitlin, Lyndsey, Graham and Michael. He was preceded in death by his mother, Joan McGlinchey, and partner James “Jay” Johnson.
Bernie worked as a skilled meat cutter and won hearts over at the front desk at Gold’s gym. He recently dedicated his faith as a member of Biltmore Church and he took great joy singing alongside his friends as a member in the Asheville Gay Men’s Chorus. Bernie was proud of his garden and adored his new kitten, Ladybug. He canned the best bread and butter pickles, which he shared with loved ones. Bernie was always up for an adventure and made friends wherever he went. Above all, he loved God. His smile, hugs and infectious personality lifted those around him and though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for all of the love, laughter and memories.
Per Bernie’s wishes, there will be no formal service, but donations in his memory may be made to Cantaria-Asheville Gay Men’s Chorus, P.O. Box 2577, Asheville, NC 28802 or via their website: avlgmc.org.
Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.
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Proud to say you were my brother
Bernie, you were the only patient ever invited to our company picnic because you were NEVER just a patient….you were the light of any room you walked into and the light that shone the brightest in every heart you met! My dear friend, you will live on in so many people’s lives because of the joy you encompassed. You will now be the brightest star in the sky and I will miss your laughter! You would say my red lipstick stained your cheeks for days, but Bernie, your light will live within my heart forever! Besos!!
Loved seeing you behind the meat counter along the East coast…
RIP my friend…
Bernie was never without a radiant smile and a kind word for me and my partner. He was a skilled singer and an energetic volunteer for our chorus, and a cherished friend to many.
A great light has gone dark, but I trust that everyone he left behind will work extra hard to make the world a brighter place in his absence.
Rest in Peace, “Handsome!”
The world is a little less bright today as your spirit is no longer in it. I met you over 20 years ago in the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus, we instantly hit it off. I enjoyed many moments at your and Jays house in Hallandale. This really hurts, I’ll always think of you when I hear ‘our song’, Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol. I’m sure you were welcomed by many who had gone before. Rest in power my friend…now there are only 2 Bs(Brian and Bert)… one day the three of us will meet again 😘
I only got to know you for a short 6 months, but I feel so blessed for that time. I always looked forward to Thursdays when we had our time together either outside at the picnic tables before your practice or inside around the table. Your big smile, sweet eyes and hugs I absolutely always looked forward to! You made me feel like a celebrity to be your “girlfriend” and our sweet moments together. You made my life brighter by being in it. I know the sky is brighter now, but man do I miss you. I’m so grateful we got one last hug the week before. I’m hold on to that feeling until our next hug. I love you “bigger” and BIGGEST!! Kisses