Bernard, more affectionately known to family and friends as "Feetsie",  was a son of the late Harvey Zimmerman Jr. and the late Anne Jamison Zimmerman was born in Cameron, South Carolina on January 14, 1953.

Bernard began his elementary schooling at St. John's Elementary School in Cameron, South Carolina. Relocating to New York in 1962, he completed his remaining years of education and graduated from High School in 1969. Thereafter, he held several jobs before landing a job at Krasdale Food Service Incorporated, where he was employed for many years before he retired. After retiring, he relocated back to his home state of South Carolina.

Bernard was a fun-loving, passionate, dependable and quiet person who kept to himself most of the time. He never liked being the center of attention but always enjoyed the company of his family and close friends. Basketball was his favorite sport, while in high school he played on the school's basketball team and even won several trophies for his athletic accolades. In his later years, he spent most of his time at home relaxing, napping, watching his favorite TV shows, sports and movies.

Bernard leaves to cherish his memories his siblings Carrie (Gregory) Perkins of New York, New York; Buesena Zimmerman of New Rochelle, New York; and Harvey Zimmerman of New York; Sister-in-law Esther Marcelle of Florida; Brother-in-law Danny Thomas of Bronx, New York; Aunt and uncles Dorothy Haigler of Elloree, South Carolina; Willie Jamison of Columbia, South Carolina; James Adams Jr. of Elloree, South Carolina and a host of nieces, nephews, grand-nephews, cousins and friends.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and many others whose lives in which he has touched.