Bernice Sudduth

Bernice was born on October 5, 1936 in Pheba, Mississippi to proud parents, General and Oberia Washington. Affectionately known as Bonnie, she was second of nine children raised from humble and spiritual beginnings. She attended Petty Elementary School in Pheba, and North Side High School in West Point, where she always exceeded her expectation in education. She accepted Christ at First Missionary Baptist Church of Pheba, where she served in the Sunday School and Usher Board Ministries. 

Bernice was united In Holy Matrimony with Charles Sudduth, and from this union they were blessed with a son whom they named Theotres. Later in life she relocated to San Diego, and during this chapter in life, God blessed her with another baby boy whom she named Steven.

Bernice was a member of New Hope Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Milton Chambers Sr. She previously attended and served on the Usher Ministry at Mt. Erie Missionary Baptist Church and Good Faith Missionary Church all of San Diego, California.

Berenice worked at Point Loma Inn, where she worked her way up to Manager of House Services. She then moved on to El Cajon Valley Hospital. After many years of dedication and outstanding achievements Bernice retired as Director of Environmental Services. 

Bernice enjoyed simple things like eating, laughing, and spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoyed dinning out with her companion of many years, Edward McGuire. She was passionate about fashion and known for wearing pearls to compliment her outfits. On the weekend it was typical for her to be uptown shopping with her bestie Louise Turner. They were like two peas in a pod. 

Bernice had many talents, one being a great cook!! On Holidays the family looked forward to eating her famous egg and potato pie. She made the best collard greens, and not mention her delicious chitterlings. She was a “Phenomenal Woman”, whose smile would light up the room. She was a loving person and spoke with such a soft tone. She was SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL.

Bernice was called home to be with the Lord on Monday March 1, 2021. She was proceeded in death by her parents General & Oberia Washington, husband Charles Sudduth, son Steven Jackson, grandson De Andre King, sister Catherine Shelton, brother Tommie Washington, and friend Edward McGuire. Bernice will forever be remembered by her beloved son Theotres Sudduth Sr.; her three amazing grandchildren, Theotres Sudduth Jr., Dewanya Wansley (Eddie Jr), Therren Sudduth and six exceptional great grandchildren. She also leavesseven siblings Osephine Washington, James Washington (Jerri), Johnny Washington (Thelma), Earnestine Bell (George), Bettye Washington, Clarice Jackson (Albert), Ricky Washington (Anita); one sister-in-law Patricia Washington; her close cousins Rev. Willie B. Lairy (Lucy), Edna Brown, Cecil Edwards and Marvin Cunningham; a devoted niece Michelle Shelton; extended family James Bell (Brenda); god daughter Caren Smith; and a host of family members and friends.

Service will be live-streamed  & on Facebook.

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