LITTLE FALLS: Bernadette Hecox, 90, a long time Little Falls resident, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 18, 2014 at Alpine Rehabilitation and Nursing Home, Little Falls. Born in Hempstead, Long Island, NY on April 27, 1924, Bernadette was the daughter of the late Bernard J. and Margaret (Ward) Hecox. Educated locally, she was a graduate of St. Mary's Academy, Little Falls and then continued her education by attending Utica College and Columbia University where she received a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy. Bernadette was a beloved dance teacher in Little Falls for 20 years before becoming a physical therapist. She retired from Columbia University as an Associate Professor in Clinical Physical Therapy. She co-authored a book on Physical Therapy and it is still in class rooms and in use today. She was a pioneer in dance for disabled adults at St. Luke's Hospital in New York City and on her retirement taught Applied Anatomy at the Julliard School at Lincoln Center. She also, at one time served on the Board of Directors at Dr. Scholls Company. Bernadette lived in New York City for 40 years, spending summers at her camp at Stewarts Landing. In 2007, she relocated to the home of her brother and sister-in-law, spending her final years at Alpine. She is survived by a sister, Sophia Hecox-Hooks of Iowa; a sister-in-law, Marlyn Hecox of Little Falls and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends in New York City. She is predeceased by a brother, Bernard Hecox and a sister, Hildegarde Hecox. Many thanks go to all the caregivers at Alpine Rehabilitation and Nursing Home who took such extra special care of Bernadette and to her friend, Denise Ult who was there always. The family will receive friends and relatives at the Enea Family Funeral home, 24 W. Monroe Street, Little Falls, NY (315)823-2424 on Wednesday, October 22, 2014 from 9:00-10:30 a.m. Bernadette's funeral service will commence immediately following calling hours beginning with prayer at 10:30 a.m. from the chapel of the funeral home and at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Parish, corner of Main/John Streets, Little Falls, where her Funeral Mass will be celebrated by the Reverend Terence Healy, assisted by Deacon James Bower. Procession will then follow to St. Mary's Cemetery, Town of Herkimer, where she will be laid to rest. Those wishing to express an act of kindness may make a donation to Holy Family Parish, Little Falls in Bernadette's memory; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Harry J. & Kevin E. Enea, Funeral Directors.