Bernie Elizabeth Hileman Misenheimer

On Tuesday, August 11, 2026 Bernie Elizabeth “Nino” Hileman Misenheimer passed away comfortably and surrounded by her family.

Bernie grew up in Kannapolis, sharing a beautiful childhood with her two older sisters, who she adored.

She attended Greensboro College. Transferring after two years, Bernie earned her bachelor’s degree from UNC Chapel Hill, remaining a UNC Basketball fan throughout her life.

Her work outside the home was varied. She first served as a teacher in Cary, NC and eventually returned to Kannapolis to be closer to Bob and became a 4th grade teacher at Centerview School. She went on to teach at Jackson Park Elementary School and McIver School, as well as many others. Bernie later took over her family business at Jewelry and Loan Company where she had worked and helped since she was a little girl. She worked there as an adult for over 50 years. She loved working with children, and as a career retailer, she loved purchasing, selling, and wearing beautiful jewelry. She was a devoted member of New Gilead Reformed Church, serving as a Deacon, Elder, and long time member of the Cemetery Committee. In retirement, she turned her focus to supporting her husband Bob’s many philanthropic and local political endeavors, helping him on the campaign trail as he served on the Kannapolis City Council and as Mayor. She was fiercely proud to be the First Lady of Kannapolis.

She loved to travel with Bob, take family trips to the beach and lake, play bridge, and best her children and grandchildren in the game of Tripoley. She taught all three grandchildren how to bet wisely, enjoy dessert before their meal, and play as often as possible.

Above all, she was a loving sister, wife, mother, and grandmother.

While her greatest joy was spending time with her family, she had an immense sense of occasion and loved any excuse to dress up in her signature navy blue stripes, which she did daily.

Bernie was preceded in death by her loving husband Robert S. Misenheimer, her two dear sisters, Mary Alda Gross and Loyce Marie Kluttz, and her parents Mary Thelma and Bernard Flowe Hileman. Bernie is survived by her two devoted daughters, Mary Elizabeth and Robin “Kathy,” her three adoring grandchildren, Robert, Elizabeth, and Robinson, and her treasured nieces and nephews. Her committed caregivers were a blessing at the end of her life.

Funeral services will take place at 3:00 PM on Sunday August 16, 2026 at New Gilead Reformed Church. Visitation will take place at the church and will begin at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the Cemetery Fund at New Gilead Reformed Church, 2400 Old Salisbury-Concord Rd, Concord, NC 28025.