Mother Bertha M Gills' Obituary
With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Bertha Gills on June 18, 2026. Bertha was born on February 14, 1944, in Brookhaven, Mississippi, to the late Edward Buie Sr. and Rosie M. Buie. She was a beacon of love, faith, and resilience, whose spirit touched everyone she encountered. Bertha grew up in a close-knit family alongside her siblings, Edward Jr., Shirley Buie, Geneva Hughes, and Ruby Mays, all of whom have preceded her in death. She was also predeceased by her beloved daughter, Evelyn Peterson, whose memory she cherished every day. Despite the loss, Bertha's life was a testament to strength and perseverance. She married Robert Gills in 1962, and to this union, four wonderful children were born. Though their marriage ended, Bertha continued to embrace her role as a devoted mother and family matriarch. Her surviving children, Lillie Ford, Millie Hudson, Hilda Wilkerson (Emory), and Kenyada Beasley, carry forward her legacy of love and dedication. Bertha was also blessed with 14 grandchildren: Katrina, Lamarr, Charmeka, Erica, Earnetta, Terrell Sr., Ausidell III, Latonya (Ahmad), Anthony, Katina, Latrice (Ashleigh) Tevell, Antwone, and Thad III. She has 19 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-great-grandchild, and 3 nieces and 5 nephews, 1 special son Amos Wise. who were the light of her life and who will continue to honor her memory. Bertha's formal education was in the Chicago Public Schools and John H. Marshall High School, where she proudly received her diploma. Her career took her to the Vital Meat Company and Centennial Dry Cleaner, where she worked with diligence and integrity. However, it was her faith and community involvement that truly defined her life. Bertha confessed her hope in Christ and joined the New Hope M.B. Church under the guidance of the late Rev. G. L. Taylor. Her dedication to her faith was unwavering; she served on the usher board, sang in the choir, and was a cherished member of the New Hope Singers, later known as The Wondering Stars. Their voices reached many cities, spreading messages of hope and devotion. In 1980, Bertha united with The New Mount Valley M.B. Church, where she served as the president of the mother board and choir, under the leadership of her late brother-in-law, Rev. L.A. Mays. New Way M.B.Church Pastor Dywane McDaniel. New Macedonia M. B. Church late pastor Rev, L. Moore. Her journey in faith continued, and in 2022, she joined the Greater Rose Hills M.B. Church under the leadership of Pastor Leon Walker, where she remained an active and beloved member of the mothers' board until her passing. Bertha's life was enriched by her cherished relationships with her first cousin, Cora Patterson (Leon), Robert Gills, two aunts, Hattie and Faye of New Orleans, and dear friends Phyllis Hall, Erma Lindsey, Vivienne Taylor, Cathryn Withers, Raul Cazares, Ms Abby, Ms. Judy, and Chassie. Bertha's compassion, kindness, and unwavering faith left an indelible mark on her community and all who knew her. As we bid farewell to Bertha, we remember a life filled with love, music, and service. She leaves behind a legacy of faith and family that will continue to inspire and uplift. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts, a guiding light of love and devotion. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love she so generously shared in her lifetime.
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