Obituary of Bernice L. Brown

On Thursday, July 30, 2020, with heaven on her face, reflections of God’s love in her eyes and the words of a Christian worship song “Blessed Assurance” in her heart, the Lord decided to call home to glory his daughter, Bernice Louise Brown, (nee Holley). With her abiding faith and these penned words, Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever” Bernice’s aspiration was to be reunited with her family in Heaven. Bernice, affectionally known as Honey, was born to Rufus Holley Sr. and Tannie Washington, who both preceded her in death. All her siblings preceded her in death, Rufus Holley Jr., Eddie W. Holley, James Holley, George Holley and Maggie Chitty. She also was preceded in death by her son, William C. Harris and her son-in-law, Albert J. Hickson Sr. She grew up in Fort Gaines, Ga. and was raised by both parents until her mother’s untimely death. As a young child, she and her younger brother would later be raised by their uncle George Washington and family. She was educated through the Clay County, Georgia School System. Early in life she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Bernice was baptized and received the right hand of fellowship into the Piney Grove Baptist Church. While attending Piney Grove Baptist Church, Bernice met her future husband, Marcellus Brown. They united in Holy Matrimony in 1950. She was the mother of four wonderful children, Larry J., William C., Marcia, and Larry D. She loved them dearly, and that love grew through the gift of her treasured grandchildren born to them. Anyone who knew Bernice knew they were the joy of her life and enjoyed having them around. In the 1950’s, with her feet planted firmly on Christian principles, Bernice became a proud and faithful member of Green Grove Baptist Church in West Berlin, New Jersey. Being obedient to her Lord, she enthusiastically served her church with a warm smile, and a servant heart as a member of the Usher Board, Missionary Board, Culinary Committee, and the Food Pantry. Evidence of the quality of service and commitment she rendered is embodied by the words penned by Booker T. Washington, “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.” Bernice's work life reflected that service and commitment as well. Honey worked as a domestic engineer for over 20 years. She also worked as a nurse’s aide for 25 years and retired from St. Mary’s Nursing home located in Cherry Hill, NJ. She continued to work part-time as a companion aide for many years after retiring. Caring and compassionate are words that best describe Bernice. At work, home, church or in the community, she could always be counted on for a kind word, comforting smile, or selfless deeds. Her hobbies included gardening, flea markets and traveling. Friends and family will fondly remember trips to Atlantic City and the joy that gave Honey. Treasured memories were made each moment she spent with her grandchildren. One only has to look at the social media of her grandchildren to see the pictures, pride, and love they have for her. Bernice became everyone's grandmother as they received updates on the special "social distancing" visits and celebrations. Her skill as a gardener served her well. She planted seeds of love, hope, pride, faith, and dedication in her children, grandchildren, family, friends, and all those that entered her circle. No doubt, she has begun tending one of God's gardens and trying to take care of someone. Bernice Louise Brown, aka Honey had gifts on earth that embody the courage and inspirational words," I will not complain.” There is no doubt that she will lovingly surround her surviving family members from above. She is in the best company now. Like Paul, Bernice’s desire was to be “absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” She leaves to cherish her legacy of love, faith, service, and knowing that it will be alright, her devoted children, Larry J. Alexander (Airminta) FL., Marcia Hickson and Larry D. Brown (Natalie) NJ.; two sisters-in-law, Carrie Brown and Peggy Holley; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.