Bernard J. Guarini

Bernard J. "Bernie" Guarini, 87, a longtime resident of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully at his home on March 4, 2026. Born and raised in Worcester, he was the son of the late Joseph and Frances (Silvestris) Guarini. Bernie graduated from North High School in 1956 and from the College of the Holy Cross in 1960. He pursued graduate studies at Clark University, Assumption College, and the University of Massachusetts-Amherst.

After three years teaching in public schools, Bernie joined the psychology department at Worcester State College, now University, in 1965. He devoted fifty-five years of full-time service to the institution before retiring in 2020. He served as chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences department, earned five Distinguished Service Awards, and composed the Worcester State fight song, "Proud Lancers." In addition to his academic career, he maintained a private practice as a clinical psychologist, primarily at Boston Road Clinic. For many years he also performed as a musician, most notably with the Johnny Kapp Trio at a wide variety of events.

Bernie’s greatest loves were his family, his faith, music, and golf. He cherished summers on Cape Cod with his wife and children, and took special delight in watching his grandsons play baseball. He was especially proud of his hole-in-one at Dennis Highlands golf course in July 2007. His favorite saying, “In Hoc Signo Vinces,” reflected the quiet strength and conviction that guided his life.

He is survived by his wife of sixty years, Charlotte A. (Hovey) Guarini; their sons, Joseph and Thomas Guarini of Shrewsbury; grandsons Anthony and Nicholas Guarini; his brother, Maurice Guarini and his wife Valerie, along with their children Lisa and Tony; and his niece Judith Perron. His sister, Mary Perron, predeceased him in 2010.