Monday, March 24, 2025, Bernadette entered eternal rest to be with her heavenly Father. Bernadette was born on January 15, 1939, to the late James and Elua Edwards. She was one of thirteen children born into this union.
Bernadette gave her life to Christ at an early age and joined the Mount Calvary Baptist Church in 1967. She was a true servant of the Lord. She devotedly served on the #1 Usher Ministry for 58 years and taught Children Sunday School for over 15 years. With a giving heart, she served in the Kitchen Ministry to feed the less fortunate in our community.
Bernadette was educated in the Portsmouth School System and graduated from I.C. Norcom High School in 1957. Always having a thirst for knowledge, Bernadette enrolled in college and obtained an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Tidewater Community College in 1979.
Her early career was working with special needs adults. She later worked for the American Red Cross in various roles and retired in 2005.
Bernadette leaves to treasure her memory a son, Steven (Jackie); two daughters, Carmen and Tracey (Gerald); three sisters, Bertha (Albert), Gloria Jean, Vera, and a brother, Henry. Grandchildren: Steven, Darryl, Jamonte, Charles, Ashlei, NiKia, Austin, Antionne, and Taylor. A host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. She was blessed with the love and care of many, including a dear friend of over 60 years, Majorie Purvis, Gwendolyn Grimes, and Ruby Askew, who were like daughters, Ricky DeBerry, Odell Hall, Troy Trotter, and Al Harris, who were like sons. Additionally, she deeply cherished her Red Cross family. Though not bound by blood, their love and devotion were unwavering, and she cherished them dearly.
She was preceded in death by her husband and life partner for over 33 years, Joseph Mizell; son, Darryl Joe; daughter, Kim Joe-Smith; grandson, Robert Edwards; great-grandson, Amir Hayes; five sisters, Catherine Looney, Lillie Moore, Ethel Copeland, Ann Brown, and Leathia Jones: three brothers, Leon, James, and John Edwards.
Bernadette’s legacy of faith, service, and love will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Condolences(4)-
-
-
-
Kimlonte, Teresa and Family says
April 4, 2025 at 6:41 amMay God’s comfort strengthen and encourage you all during your time of bereavement.
Lisa Brown Hinton( Joanne's daughter) says
April 5, 2025 at 12:58 pmSending my sincere condolences for the loss of such a wonderful woman. Ms. Bernadette was like an aunt to me and so many others. She carried herself with such poise and dignity and expected the same from others, especially young ladies. Although, I would see her on occasions, she would always give me a big heartfelt hug, ask how I was doing, tell me she just saw my Mom (JoAnne), ask when I was coming to church and offer words of wisdom.
Love you Aunt Bernadette. Rest Easy Beautiful ❤️🕊🙏🏾✝️
patricia f. johnson says
April 7, 2025 at 11:16 amSending my condolences to the family of Sister Mizell. I remember her smile as she stood on the door as an usher at Mt Calvary. She was very calm, polite and she had a very friendly personality.
Min. Gloria Govan says
April 8, 2025 at 12:21 pmMs. Bernadette always carried herself with quiet confidence that commanded respect. She expected the same from others, especially from young women. Even though I only saw her occasionally, she always greeted me with a warm smile. Her words were always laced with wisdom—gentle reminders wrapped in love.