Joseph Bernstein

Joseph Bernstein passed away Saturday, July 6, 2024, at the age of 84, after a brief illness. Joe was born on July 11, 1939, and was the son of Jacob and Mary Bernstein. He was born in Shamokin, PA and grew up on the beautiful Island of Chincoteague, where his parents owned and operated their factory, JM Bernstein Manufacturing Co.

Joe made many friends during his childhood and was even voted Class President. He continued to keep in touch with his classmates even as the years passed by. After high school, Joe moved to the Western Shore to attend Mt. St. Mary’s College. He began working as a Buyer for Giant and was a dedicated employee for over 20 years. Joe was involved with his family by coaching Little League for his son and driving his daughter to dance classes and recitals. Because of Joe’s love of his home and family, he eventually came back to the Eastern Shore. Not one to sit idle, Joe took positions as a Sales Representative for several beachwear companies. Having grown up working in the factory alongside his parents and siblings, Joe knew that one day he wanted to have his own business.  Inspired by his position as an outside representative, Joe decided to open his first retail store, Sea Colony, in Bethany Beach, Delaware. Joe went on to open more retail beach shops in his childhood hometown of Chincoteague. He could always be found playing his guitar for the customers. His customers became family to him, returning year after year.

On November 10, 1990, Joe married his best friend, Christine. They had 33 wonderful years of marriage, taking fun trips together as a couple and with their children and grandkids.  They worked together side by side at the shops building their new future. After many years, Joe and Christine made the tough decision to finally retire. Even after retirement, Joe could still be found on the Island attending the Chincoteague Carnival with his brothers, enjoying the famous Oyster sandwiches.

Joe was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church for many years, and was always quick to volunteer. One of his many services to the community was helping with the Men’s Shelter. Joe will be greatly missed by his family, friends and community.

Joe was predeceased by his wife and best friend Christine in 2023. Joe was blessed with six brothers and one sister. He is survived by brothers Richard and wife Ellen of Oxford; Daniel and wife Peggy of Chincoteague; Nicholas and wife Judy of Salisbury; and sister Faith Bernstein of Salisbury. Joe’s brothers Barry, David and Michael Bernstein predeceased him.

Joe is survived by his son Joseph A. Bernstein and his wife Barbara, of Salisbury; a daughter, Robyn Bernstein and partner Steve Stine of Quantico; and son Jason Bernstein of Salisbury. He is also survived by his step-children, Lisa Davis and husband Chris of Salisbury; and Pamela Miller and husband James of Bethel, Delaware. Joe is also survived by his grandchildren, Joseph C. Bernstein of Salisbury; Mara King and her spouse Joseph of Salisbury; Danielle Magarelli and spouse Gabriel of Salisbury; and Grason Winterbottom of Mardela; Ashley Herrera and spouse Marcos of Virginia; and Christopher Wahlne of Hawaii.

He is survived by step-grandchildren Matthew Davis and wife Erin of Millsboro; Andrew Davis and wife Megan of Salisbury; Anna Pope and husband Andrew from North Carolina; and Austin Miller of Ocean City. Joe was loved by many great-grandchildren.

A memorial service and celebration of life will take place at the Trinity Family Life Center on Mt. Hermon Road on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 12:00pm. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior.

Flowers and donations may be sent to Trinity Family Life Center on Mt. Hermon Road.

Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, P.A., 501 Snow Hill Road. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the family at www.hollowayfh.com