Bernice Ripley Edwards

Evangelist Bernice Ripley Edwards, is a woman who walked faithfully with the Lord until He called her home on December 14th, 2024. She was born on May 14th, 1956, in England to the parents of Lt. Col Maurice and Herna Lee Ripley.

Evangelist Bernice was a true woman of God, who fought a good fight, who never gave up and kept fighting till the end. She was a woman who trusted and believed and depended on God for everything and never made a decision without him. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a grandmother and a loyal friend. Her life was a tapestry woven with threads of kindness and grace, and her legacy is one of unwavering devotion to her family and to the Almighty God.

For 38 blessed years Evangelist Bernice shared her life with her beloved husband, Minister Phillip Edwards Sr., a partnership ordained in the heavens. Together they raised two wonderful children, Christina Davis and Phillip Edwards Jr., who were the apple of her eye. Bernice found joy in her son-in-law Jamar Davis, and her heart swelled with pride for her four grandchildren, Eugene Thomas III, Alexis Thomas, Danielle Edwards, and Jae Edwards. She was also a sister to Janice Fletcher and Maurico Ripley, an aunt and a friend to many, leaving behind a host of relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

Before her retirement, Evangelist Bernice served 37 years in the Federal Government, where her dedication and hard work left an indelible mark. Her commitment extended beyond her professional life as she was an active member of her church, Sojourner Life Ministries- Strength For The Journey. She was always willing to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement.

Bernice's passions were simple yet profound, she found solace in the pages of a good book. Especially in God's word, joy in the delicate art of cross-stitch, and satisfaction in the completion of a challenging puzzle. These quiet moments of reflection and creation were the thread that connected her to the beauty of life.

Describing Evangelist Bernice Edwards as loving is an understatement—she embodied love in every action, every word, every prayer. Her faith was as deep as the ocean and as steadfast as the mountains. Courage was her cloak, and she wore it with dignity even in the face of adversity

Evangelist Bernice Edwards' hope never wavered, her song of faith never ceasing. She taught us that even in the darkest of times, hope is our guiding light and our comfort.

As we bid farewell to Evangelist Bernice Ripley Edwards, we do not say goodbye but rather, "Until we meet again." For we know that she has been welcomed into the eternal kingdom, where pain and sorrow are no more, and love reigns supreme. Let us honor her memory by living as she did—with love in our hearts, faith in our souls, and courage in our steps.

Today, we rejoice for Evangelist Bernice Edwards as she has fought the good fight, she has finished her course. I have kept the faith : Henceforth, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

May her spirit soar on the wings of angels, and may her story be a beacon of hope for generations to come. Evangelist Bernice Ripley Edwards, your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. Amen.

A celebration of Bernice's life will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Sunset North Funeral Home, 910 N Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, TX 78232; family will receive guests at 10:00am.