Bertha James Towers

Mrs. Bertha Towers was born in Tallulah, Louisiana on April 1, 1932, the third of four children to Huey James Sr. and Laura Green. The family moved to Las Vegas so Huey could pursue a better life for the family. Huey became an active deacon at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Pastor E.C. Kline. As the family became more active in church, Bertha’s faith and commitment to the church was acknowledged through her acceptance of Christ at an early age, through her service as the church secretary, and through her participation in the Pilgrim Rest choir.

Occasionally, Bertha’s mother would allow her to meet with friends at the historical Jackson Street casinos, where she ultimately met “Larry” Towers Sr. Their relationship blossomed, and on August 1st, 1950, Bertha and Lawrence married. They lived on the historic Westside of Las Vegas, where they raised their loving children: Vietta, Virgil, Lawrence Jr., Ricky Sr., Gregory, and Michael Sr. Two of those children, Virgil and Lawrence Jr., preceded Bertha in death.

Bertha led a joyful and prosperous life, and she retired after working 34 years for the Sands Hotel. She balanced most of her time between church and family by being a very active participant in the local community, faithfully attending Pilgrim Rest church, attending various sporting activities for her children, fishing with her family at Lake Mead, and participating in various bowling leagues throughout the city.

Bertha leaves a legacy of love and nurturing spirit to her children, Vietta (Floyd), Ricky Sr. (Shirley), Gregory (Rebecca), Michael Sr. (Carolyn); God-daughters, Tammy Hayes (Las Vegas), Pam Cartwright (Las Vegas);17 Grand-Children, 16 Great Grand-Children, 7 Great Great-Grand Children; two brothers, Eddie James (Los Angeles) and Cleo James (Las Vegas); and one brother, Huey James Jr. (Los Angeles), who preceded her in death; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Lawrence and Bertha are young, and in heaven now. And she made it before August 1st, their 66th wedding anniversary!