Bernice Theresa Wallace

Bernice T. Wallace (B.K.A... Mom, Mama, Gran-mommy, Sister dear, Auntie, Aunt Bernice, Bern, B. Wallace, Bernie, Sister Bernice or just simply Bernice).  She was loved and respected by so many. She had a heart of gold. She would go above and beyond to help anyone in need.

Bernice made her grand entrance into the world on October 10, 1936.  She was born in Detroit, Michigan and the youngest daughter to Mrs. Helen Hicks-Watkins and Mr. William Watkins. As a young girl, Bernice attended St. Benedict Catholic School through 8th grade and then Excelsior High School. She graduated from Richard J. Murray with honors in 1955.  After high school she attended Florida Memorial College. During this time she played the piano and organ for St. Benedict Catholic Church Cathedral Basilica and several other Catholic churches in St. Augustine and Jacksonville.

After attending college, Bernice married, gave birth to two sons (Rodney and Darryl) then moved to New York. Bernice lived in New York several years before returning to St. Augustine, FL.  She re-married, gave birth to a daughter (Savacia) and relocated to Jacksonville, FL. While in Jacksonville she gave birth to another daughter (Cynthia) and son (Edward).

Bernice had a long rewarding career with Bellsouth/AT&T. She worked for 30 years before retiring in Accounting as a Specialist.

After retirement, Bernice returned to school and received her Bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville Theological Seminary. She went on to become a licensed insurance agent with A.L. Williams. After working several years in the insurance industry, Bernice decided to become a Para-Professional in the Duval County school system.

As you can see, she was not afraid of hard work. She was career driven and dedicated in everything she did. She loved music. Most of all, she loved helping people and she loved her family.

She was survived by her sons, Rodney Strawter (Atlanta), Darryl Strawter (Jacksonville) and Edward Wallace, Jr. (Atlanta); her daughters, Savacia Wallace-Hudson (Atlanta) and Cynthia Wallace (Jacksonville); son-in-Law, Roosevelt Hudson (Atlanta); grandsons, Steven Hudson, Sterling Hudson, Spencer Hudson and Stewart Hudson; she was also survived by her sister, Helen Mansell (Jacksonville); and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

SHE WAS LOVED DEARLY. SHE WILL BE MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN!!!

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the family. 

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