Bernard Family Genealogy & History

Crystal Lynn Bernard is a retired American actress and singer-songwriter renowned for her role as Helen Chappel-Hackett on the sitcom "Wings" (1990–1997). She also gained recognition for her performances as Amy on "It's a Living" (1985–1989) and K.C. Cunningham on "Happy Days" (1983–1984). Bernard's musical career includes albums such as "The Girl Next Door" and "Don't Touch Me There," with the latter featuring collaborations with her father and country artist Billy Dean. Her single "Don't Touch Me There" reached No. 25 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, showcasing her crossover appeal in music and television.

Born in Garland, Texas, Crystal Bernard is the daughter of televangelist Jerry Wayne Bernard and teacher Gaylon Fussell. She grew up performing gospel songs with her older sister, Robyn, who was also an actress. Crystal has two younger sisters, Scarlett and Angelique. Her early exposure to music and performance was influenced by her family's involvement in religious and educational pursuits.

Susan Lynn Bernard (1948–2019) was a multifaceted American author, actress, model, and businesswoman from Los Angeles. Known for her role in Russ Meyer's cult classic "Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" (1965) and appearances in "General Hospital," she also gained fame as a Playboy Playmate. As an author, Susan penned six books, including "Marilyn: Intimate Exposures," highlighting her versatility and impact on popular culture. She led Bernard of Hollywood/Renaissance Road Incorporated, further cementing her place in the entertainment industry.

Susan Bernard was the daughter of renowned photographer Bruno Bernard. Her family life included her marriage to actor/playwright Jason Miller, with whom she had a son, actor Joshua John Miller, before their eventual divorce.

Bruno Bernard Sommerfeld, known as Bernard of Hollywood, was a renowned American photographer celebrated for his pin-up and glamour photography, notably capturing iconic images of Marilyn Monroe. Born in Berlin, Bernard fled Nazi Germany in 1937 and established a successful photography career in Los Angeles. His "posed candid" style, developed through his interest in psychology and directing, gained popularity, leading to his work being recognized by Hollywood's elite. In 1984, he was honored by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences with a 50-year retrospective. His photograph "Marilyn in White" was later named the "Symbol of the Century" by the Museum of Modern Art.

Bruno Bernard was born into poverty in Berlin, Germany, on February 2, 1912. Due to financial constraints, his parents placed him in an orphanage. Despite these early challenges, Bernard's parents gifted him a Rolleiflex camera in 1923, igniting his passion for photography. His family background and early circumstances played a significant role in shaping his journey from Berlin to becoming a celebrated photographer in Hollywood.

Hewitt Bernard (1825 – 1893) was a prominent Canadian lawyer, militia officer, editor, and civil servant. Born in Spanish Town, Jamaica, Bernard moved to British North America, settling in Barrie, Ontario. He was a key figure in Canadian history, serving as the private secretary to Prime Minister John A. Macdonald and playing a vital role in the Charlottetown Conference of 1864. His contributions to the Canadian Confederation have led some historians to regard him as a Father of Confederation. Bernard also held the position of Deputy Minister of Justice from 1868 to 1876 and was honored as a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in 1872.

Hewitt Bernard was born to a family in Spanish Town, Jamaica. After the death of his father in 1850, he relocated to British North America. In 1854, he brought his mother and sister Agnes to live with him in Barrie, Ontario. His sister Agnes later married John A. Macdonald, reinforcing Bernard’s connection to Canada’s political landscape.