Surrounded by her loving family, Bernice Davis Willey, a beloved daughter of God, was called to her heavenly home on July 8, 2023. Born on January 29, 1934, in Lane, South Carolina, Bernice was the fifth child of Mariah “Curly” Dozier Davis and John A. Davis, and a cherished sister to six siblings.
Growing up in Lane, a small town near Kingstree (Williamsburg County), South Carolina, Bernice faced numerous challenges. Opportunities for minorities and women in Lane were scarce, and discrimination prevailed. Despite these hardships, she maintained unwavering determination and became the first among her siblings to graduate from Greeleyville High School in 1953.
Following her graduation, Bernice followed in the footsteps of her eldest brother, Samuel Davis Sr., who served as a Merchant Seaman, and moved to Norfolk, Virginia. It was there that she met and married Edward Leroy Willey Sr., an Army soldier, in December 1954.
After an honorable discharge, Edward “Fats” and his brother Earl Willey established E.L. Willey Electrical Contractor on Church Street in Norfolk. When Edward Sr. passed away in 1998, Bernice assumed ownership of the company, which is currently operated by her sons, Edward L. Willey Jr. and Michael A. Willey.
Bernice was preceded in death by her loving parents, John A. Davis Sr. and Mariah Dozier Davis, as well as her brothers Samuel Davis Sr. and James Davis, and her sisters Janie Mae Garrett, Rev. Essie L. Major Johnson, Dorothy Davis, and Betty D. Swinton. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward L. Willey Sr., and her youngest child, Esther J. Willey.
Left to cherish her memory are her children: Violet D. Edwards (Edgar), Edward L. Willey Jr., Michael A. Willey, David J. Willey, Ellen M. Harris (Quentin), Regina Mobley (Clyde Taylor), Marietta E. Willey, Allen C. Willey (Janet), and Max A. Willey (Rachel). Bernice is also survived by her brother, Bishop Moses L. Davis (Evangeline), her brother-in-law Sam Swinton, her sister-in-law Gwendolyn Davis, and her brother-in-law Dwight Snead Sr. She leaves behind a legacy of love that extends to her 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; and a host of relatives and friends.
As a devoted mother and wife, Bernice found joy in creating matching Easter dresses for her daughters and crafting her eldest daughter’s wedding dress. She embraced the role of nurturing her family, preparing meals for her husband, and attending various events such as band performances, chorus concerts, and graduations. She proudly supported her sons, David and Allen, who served in the United States Air Force/Reserve and her two sons, Michael and Max, who served in the United States Navy.
Bernice’s dedication extended beyond her family life. She pursued bookkeeping and typing, which enabled her to efficiently manage the family business. Her unwavering faith and sense of humor served as beacons of strength during life’s storms as she cared for her loved ones.
In the 1970s, Bernice embarked on a new chapter by obtaining her driver’s license. To the surprise and delight of her family, she welcomed her youngest child, Esther J. Willey, into the world in 1978. Tragically Esther’s life was cut short by a devastating car accident in 1997.
While faithfully caring for her husband, Bernice pursued a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Diploma. She dedicated her time and skills to assisting others, working at various institutions such as Hillhaven Nursing Home, Lafayette Villa, Sentara Home Health, Jewish Family Services, and as a private duty nurse until her retirement in 2005.
In her leisure, Bernice found solace in sitting on her front porch, admiring her front yard flowers, and tending to her flourishing vegetable garden in the backyard. Additionally, she enjoyed fishing and crabbing at the Ocean View Fishing Pier, savoring the tranquility of the ocean.
A devout missionary and Sunday School teacher, Bernice actively served at Greater United Mission Holiness Church in the Berkeley section of South Norfolk for an incredible 63 years. She dedicated her time and energy to the Titustown Community Center, participating in various gatherings such as quilting classes, birthdays, local cruises, concerts, and fashion shows. Furthermore, she regularly attended Wednesday Bible Studies at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church.
We are immensely grateful to God for granting Bernice a longer life than expected following her terminal diagnosis. Over the past 18 months, we have witnessed her heart overflowing with love and joy during countless family gatherings, holidays, and birthday parties. We express our heartfelt appreciation to Virginia Oncology, Sentara Leigh Hospital, Westminster Canterbury, Care Advantage, and Danyell Taylor for their exceptional care and support during this time.
Bernice Davis Willey was a cherished mother, and her earthly journey has now led her to eternal joy and peace in the presence of the Lord. Her legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering faith will forever remain in our hearts.
Condolences(19)-
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Kimberly Brown says
July 11, 2023 at 2:08 pmMy condolences goes to the Willey Family. Mrs. Bernice Willey was a very nice person who always kept a smile on her face.
Dianne Stephenson says
July 12, 2023 at 12:45 amMy Sincere Condolences to Dave Willey and Family during this difficult time.
BARBARA Harper says
July 14, 2023 at 9:11 pmOur condolence to the family
Dianne Stephenson says
July 12, 2023 at 12:46 amMy Sincere Condolences to Dave Willey and Family during this difficult time
Danyell Taylor says
July 12, 2023 at 1:16 amIt was a pleasure to care for Mrs Willey and I thank her wonderful children for trusting me to do so….rest BEAUTIFUL💕
Vanessa Edwards (Head Family) Titustown says
July 12, 2023 at 2:23 amMemories are forever. Willey Family, Condolences and Prayers during the passing of your dear Mother. Ms. Bernice’s friendship to her fishing partner (Ms. Ruth Head) was so appreciated.
Gladys Gray says
July 12, 2023 at 9:07 amOur condolences, love & prayers go out to The Willey Family. We love you.
Reginald Howard says
July 12, 2023 at 10:51 amSister Willey always had an up beat attitude toward life. As a friend of the Howard family, she will be missed. My sincere condolence goes out to the family.
Vanessa Stancel says
July 12, 2023 at 10:54 pmTo Regina and Family
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your mother, Sister Bernice Willey. We have prayed for you and your family ever since we learned of this unfortunate news. Please know that we will continue to pray for you, your family, and your friends in the days ahead.
With deepest sympathy and much love,
Vanessa and The Stancel Sisters
Randy &Robin Thomas says
July 13, 2023 at 5:44 pmFarewell Mother willey, we will see you in the morning! When all the saints come marching in. We will miss you with that smile that could light up a room. Condolences to family, it won’t be long till we all be going home 🙏 😪 😢 😔 ❤️!
Elois F. Butler says
July 14, 2023 at 8:35 pmTo the Willey Family. May you find peace, comfort, and strength from the God of all comfort during this tender season. I have very fond memories of this great woman of God.
Elois Fitchett Butler
Formerly of Titustown
BARBARA Harper says
July 14, 2023 at 9:08 pmOur condolence to the family
Glenda Fitchett Everett says
July 14, 2023 at 10:47 pmCondolences to Violet and family. No words can express my sorrow in hearing of the passing of your mother. I remember her while growing up in Titustown. A true woman of God and soldier of the cross. May God comfort and strengthen you in this time of bereavement.
Krystal Childress says
July 15, 2023 at 1:01 pmMy condolences to the Willey family. Keeping you all in my prayers!
Sandra Gail Cross Burton says
July 15, 2023 at 6:35 pmMy sincerest condolences to the family on behalf of the Cross Family. Our families had known each other for many years until life found new journeys for us. I have wonderful memories from our old neighborhood (Carney Park) It was a pleasure to reunite with Ms. Bernice when I returned to Titustown Center or a short period of time. We had good conversations of the “old days”. I wish I could be there in person tomorrow but know my heart is with you during this time; Remember the God of Peace will be with you tomorrow and always….
Sandra Gail Cross Burton, Cynthia Cross Walcott and Sharon Cross..
Dr. Sandra Adside Wright and Family says
July 16, 2023 at 6:54 amTo my dear friend, Ellen, and family. Our prayers are with you always, but especially in your time of need. Losing such a cherished loved one is difficult, but we pray there’s solace in knowing your mother is an angel. Be blessed; we love you!
Rev. Dr. Glenda P Murray Kelly says
July 17, 2023 at 6:36 amMay the love of Christ be with you all during the time of transitioning of your belove. She is now safe in the arms of Jesus and preparing to meet her husband and family in glory. My heart has been touched by the remarkable woman of God. I love the family and KEEP praying for me as I will pray for you. She was a strong woman of God and have faith of mustard seed.
Deborah Taylor Mapp says
July 17, 2023 at 11:54 amTo the Davis/Willey Family: My sincere condolences to you as you say, “So long” to one so dear. Know that she rests in peace with Jesus. May you be comforted by God and good memories. Love and Peace.
The Gaines Family says
July 17, 2023 at 12:20 pmWe are praying for your family as
you all make this transition,
We all are grateful to God,for the Willey family,no doubt you all are part of our village growing up and those great memories of our lives in Titustown
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