Bernice Parker

April 16, 1933 - February 18, 2019

Bernice Parker was born to Emma Olivia Sims and Will Green in Potterville, Missouri on April 16, 1933. She had 10 siblings. Her parents preceded her in death. Bernice was an intelligent woman who was well educated and hardworking. She attended Olive Harvey College and worked for Zenith until she retired. She loved to read, and spent most of her time reading, cooking, and watching VHS tapes. On December 18, 1960, in Indiana, Bernice married Kenneth Parker. She was blessed with a large and loving family. Together, they raised six children: Yvonne, Carolyn, Lydell, Lorez, Yvette, and Clantcha. After a careful study of the Bible, Bernice dedicated her life to Jehovah. On March 10, 2000, she symbolized her dedication through water baptism, becoming one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. For 19 years, Bernice served Jehovah faithfully. She enjoyed teaching all her loved ones how to serve Jehovah. She loved to tell stories to her grandchildren, and always had time to answer a question or solve a problem, no matter how big or small. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in Jehovah supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace. She raised her children, grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren with patience, discipline, and humility. Bernice love of family was evident by the way she took time to listen, console and offer guidance. Her grandchildren enjoyed being at grandmas house, there was warm hugs, lots of fun and no spankings. Bernice loved life and valued all living things. Animals big and small were protected in her home. She respected the right of all creatures to live their life even mice. Bernice loved people and was a caregiver at heart. The last decade of her life, she spent caring for her brother Wallace Franklin, mother-in-law Eva Thomas, and her great grandson Daniel Taylor prior to their deaths. This well-respected woman was seen as a hero in the community. She raised three generations of neighbors, and everyone knew her as “Mama”. She truly had a heart of gold and she will be missed. Bernice was loved by everyone in the Roseland community. On February 18, 2019, after a battle with a longterm illness, Bernice fell asleep in death. She is dearly missed by her loved ones, who have loving memories of the wonderful times shared. P Bernice leaves to cherish her loving memories, 6 children: Yvonne (Joe) McDonald, Carolyn (Kenneth) Johnson, Lydell (Elaine) Curry, Lorez (Stephen) Ramsey, Yvette (Bo) Jackson, and Clantcha (Jon Karey) Parker; 9 siblings Levi, Rosella Dorsey, Katie May, Floyd, Ezelle, Robert, Ben, Milton, and Christine; 28 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.