Bertha Mae Williams

Bertha was born July 10, 1927 in Brighton TN. (32 miles north of Memphis) to the late Zion and Ludie Alston. Bertha grew up on a 116 acre farm with six siblings, three boys and three girls. Bertha was the fifth child with one younger brother. Bertha had one son who passed in 2014. She leaves a grandson, Zachary.

Dr. Bertha was a psychologist and Spiritual Director. She was a staff member at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the University of California, Berkeley where she taught students majoring in psychology. After retirement she received certification as a Spiritual Director from the Mercy Center, Spiritual Directors Institute. She became Spiritual Director at San Damiano Retreat Center in Danville CA. She was the author of four books, a history of four generations of her family, “Reflections, a book on finding the silver lining in ageing, “Is Longevity Overrated? , a book on treating eating disorders, “You’re not What You Eat and a collection of poems,” Life and Afterlife. Bertha received countless certificates and awards. Bertha also had a lust for travel, having visited twenty-four countries and forty-two states.

Bertha was devout Christian solider who often teased; she was nearly born in the Church. At an early age, Bertha was called to sing with the adult choir, teach Bible Studies and lead various women groups. She dedicated her life to serving the Creator. Her work spanning more than eighty years, served as an inspiration to all she affected throughout her Christian Walk. Bertha finished the race and now rest with the Lord.