Matthew Bernota, a longtime resident of Beltsville, died July 5. He grew up in Beltsville where he attended Beltsville Elementary and High Point Jr. Sr. High School, from which he graduated in 1960. After earning a Master’s Degree in Education, he returned to teach at High Point. He taught social studies and was the department head when he retired. He married Mary Lou Howard Bernota, and their sons Chad and Drew are also High Point graduates. For a while, he worked for The Beltsville News.
After Matt retired, he and Mary Lou moved to New Market in Frederick County where he was living at the time of his death. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his six grandchildren, traveling, golfing, and teaching adult education classes. Matt was instrumental in organizing many reunions for the High Point Class of 60, and he maintained many friendships from his years in Beltsville.