Bernadine E. Elrod, 96, of Malvern died Saturday, June 4, 2011 in Hot Springs County. She was born July 24, 1914 in Satsuma, Texas to the late Harm and Ellen Saathoff.

Bernadine was raised in Houston Texas and graduated from J.H.Reagan High School. She attended Houston University and the Chicago University School of Music. Bernadine has been a Malvern resident since 1951.

Bernadine was a member of the First United Methodist Church and was the choir director for many years. She was instrumental in getting "How Great Thou art" added to the Methodist Church Hymnal. She taught piano and voice lessons for nearly 70 years. Bernadine participated in the Horticulture club, Wesleyan SVC Guild and many activities at the First United Methodist Church. She loved knitting and ceramics painting and was affectionately known as the "sweater angel" because of the many layette sets she made for the missions at the First United Methodist Church. Bernadine collected Madonnas and donated a beautiful collection to her church.

Bernadine was preceded in death by two brothers O. K. (Kenneth) Saathoff Sr. and Donald Saathoff.

Her survivors include a Sister in Law, Dorothy Saathoff of Navasota, Texas. Nephews Ken Saathoff Jr and Kathleen, of Houston, Dennis Saathoff and Kay and Niece Ellen Mae Musgrove & Earl of Navasota Texas. Nephews Donald Jr., Mike, and Bill Saathoff., Many great nieces and nephews and great great-nieces and nephews and by special friends Yvonne and Larry. Very Special thank to dear friend Nina Morehead.

Her funeral will be held at a graveside service on Wednesday, June 8 at 10 o'clock at the Oak Ridge Cemetery in Malvern under the direction of JA Funk Funeral Home, with Reverend LaVon Post officiating. There will be no formal visitation.

Memorials are requested to the First United Methodist Church.