Bernie

Bernhardt Tiede II, a kind-hearted and soft-spoken man, starts his first day at the Hawthorne Funeral Home in Carthage, Texas. His chubby-cheeked demeanor elicits mixed feelings among the townspeople, with some finding him endearingly 'peachy and sweet.'

As time passes, Bernie quickly becomes a beloved member of the Carthage community. His unwavering kindness and dedication to creating beautiful funerals endear him to residents, who appreciate his thoughtful services for the deceased.

Bernie organizes the funeral of Rod Nugent, a wealthy oilman, which brings him into contact with the affluent and influential members of Carthage. During this event, he meets Marjorie Nugent, Rod's widow, known for her arrogant personality and unpopularity in town.

After the funeral, Bernie begins to visit Marjorie regularly, forming a relationship that extends beyond mere obligation. He assists her with errands and accompanies her to meals and outings, slowly becoming a significant part of her life.

In August 1997, the community is rocked when Marjorie Nugent is discovered dead in her garage. Disturbingly, she had been shot four times in the back and hidden under frozen foods, not discovered until nine months after her death.

The townsfolk exhibit a shocking indifference to Marjorie's absence, with many noting that no one missed her in the months leading up to her discovery. This lack of concern highlights her unpopularity in the community.

Police announce that Bernie is the primary suspect in Marjorie Nugent's murder, claiming he used her money to assist others in town. While he confesses to the crime, the circumstances surrounding the murder raise eyebrows across the nation.

Despite the shocking nature of the crime, the townspeople of Carthage rally behind Bernie, demonstrating their support in an unusual display. They drive around the courthouse honking horns, urging the District Attorney not to take legal action against him.

Amidst the turmoil, it is revealed that Bernie had been using Marjorie's money to aid others in need. He donated a substantial sum of $100,000 in her name to the local Methodist church for a new Sunday school building, further complicating public sentiment about his actions.

As the trial nears, the sentiment in Carthage remains largely in favor of Bernie. Many residents see him not as a murderer but as a misunderstood figure who brought kindness and support to the community, creating a deep divide in perspectives.