Bernice Alferda Reed

Bernice Alferda Reed was born on April 4, 1939, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to Sally Sarah Washington and Gaston Mayberry. She married the love of her life, Frank Reed II, and together they were blessed with three children: Barbara Joy, Frank Reed III, and Tamiko.

Bernice was a dedicated and hardworking woman who devoted 30 years of service to General Motors before retiring in 1999. Her retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter, allowing her more time to embrace the things she loved most: her faith, her family, and the simple joys of life.

Bernice and Frank were devoted followers of Jesus Christ, and their faith remained a cornerstone of their family. Bernice believed wholeheartedly in passing down her faith to future generations. She often shared that one of her greatest responsibilities was ensuring that her children, and especially her grandchildren, came to know Jesus Christ for themselves. Through her love, wisdom, and unwavering faith, she planted seeds that would continue to grow for generations. Her spiritual legacy lives on through the faith, values, and love she instilled in those closest to her.

While Bernice was deeply rooted in her faith, she also knew how to enjoy life and have a good time! She found happiness in life's simple pleasures and believed in making the most of every moment. She loved the outdoors, especially taking walks along bike trails, where she could appreciate the beauty of God's creation. Bernice also had a wonderful sense of adventure. She delighted in loading the car with her grandchildren and heading out on road trips, turning ordinary outings into unforgettable experiences filled with laughter, discovery, and love.

And Bernice certainly enjoyed a good game of cards! Whether sharing a laugh, enjoying intense competition, or simply spending time with family, she knew how to make a gathering memorable. She remains the undefeated champion in Uno!

Bernice's life was a beautiful reflection of faith, family, love, and joy. She understood that some of life's greatest blessings are found not in grand occasions, but in the simple moments spent with the people we love. She leaves behind more than cherished memories; she leaves a legacy of faith that will continue to guide her family, a love that will continue to unite them, and a lifetime of joyful moments that will bring smiles even through tears.

Though her earthly journey has come to an end, the beauty of Bernice's life will continue to be reflected in the lives of those she touched. Her family will remember the road trips, card games, the laughter, the wisdom she shared, and, above all, the love she gave so freely. The greatest way to honor her memory will be to carry forward the very things she held dear: loving God, cherishing family, finding joy in life's journey, and making every moment count.

Bernice Alferda Reed was more than a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a woman of faith, a source of love, a keeper of precious family memories, and a beautiful reminder that a life well lived is measured by the hearts we touch.

Bernice leaves to cherish her loving memory her siblings, Gloria (Norman) Blanchard, Emma Gillon, JoAnn Mayberry, Robert Mayberry, and Raymond Mayberry, daughter-in-law, Shirley Reed and grandchildren, William Reed, Sherod Reed, Chanel Miller, Michelle (Stephen) Wingard, Kimberly Reed, Siony Miller, Shaneta Reed, Isaiah (Tamika) Reed, Omni Pasley, Nolan Randolph II, Nikko Randolph, and Na’Quayla Randolph, and a host of great grandchildren, great great grandchildren and nieces and nephews who loved her very much.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sally and Gaston Mayberry; her loving husband, Frank (Sweetie) Reed II; her daughters, Tamiko Randolph (Nolan) and Barbara Joy Reed; son, Frank Reed III; and her grandson, Varnell Whitley.