Mrs. Bernice Williams

Bernice Williams (AKA: Bern, My Mom, Bernice, G. G., and all her other nicknames) was born on June 16, 1949, in Poplar Grove, Arkansas to Farris and Armelia Wilborn, who preceded her in death. Bernice grew up in the small town of Marvell, Arkansas. She graduated high school and attended college at AM&N College (currently known as The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff or UAPB) in Pine Bluff, AR. Bernice knew that her vision and her personality were both bigger than the small town where she had grown up. So, this “Southern Girl” packed her bags and moved to Philadelphia, PA, to live with her Uncle Al and Aunt B.B. She found her way and lived in “Philly” for more than 50 years until she transitioned to her new home in heaven on September 29, 2021.

Bernice gave her life to Christ at an early age while living in Arkansas and continued to serve the Lord here in Philadelphia at the Upper Room Baptist Church. She also continued her education here and graduated with a Bachelor of Physiology degree from Antioch University.

Bernice was a fashionista who will always be remembered as our “Queen B” for her infectious love of life, an opinion about everything, a unique sense of humor, and a never-ending desire to help others. She was an avid gardener and loved her plants. Her ability to curate memorable family events and unforgettable parties …AND be the life of the party will forever make us smile. Her travel prowess for trips abroad, to casinos, beaches, and especially trips across the U.S., 20-deep with family and friends, to the family reunions kept us all amazed. Her love for all music genres…southern gospel, old-school R&B and Rap is also what we will remember. Her favorite artist included Shirley Ceasar, James Brown, Barry White, JaRule, Aretha Franklin, Frankie Beverly, Charlie Wilson, Rhianna and Carlos Santana. Learning new dances with the grandkids was a favorite past time.

Her family and friends will forever cherish her life: Three (3) siblings: James Wilborn (Verlene) of Memphis, TN, Blenda DeBerry and Eric Wilbon (Vicki), both of Atlanta, GA; and her sister-in-law Patricia Wilborn of Phoenix, AZ. Her brother Carl preceded her in death. Three (3) daughters: Angela Brown, Blanche Jackson-Timbers (Elliott), and Terri Jackson (Sol); Ten (10) loving grandchildren: Tanzi, Shukirryyah, Chantaya, Malik, Khalil, Elliott, Zymir, Shannon, Jamal, Samiyah, and her grandson Khalil who preceded her in death; Nineteen (19) great-grandchildren; One (1) great-great-grandchild; Six (6) Aunts: Martha, Ossie, Alma, Cassie, Mag and Chris, who loved her dearly; Eight (8) Nieces and Nephews Dion, Martine, Ruza, Leon, Aurius (A.J.), Courtney, Daphne, and Sydney; a host of cousins, great-nieces and nephews, and very special friends.

Bernice, our dear Queen B, go on and take your rest. You’ve fought a good fight, you ran the race, you kept the faith, and most of all, you did it your way! We love you and you will always be in our hearts.