Life’s Reflections…
And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself.
The only son of the late Mable Williams Gorum, Bernard was born October 21, 1945 in London Bridge, VA; a division later merged with the City of Virginia Beach, VA. He attended the public schools graduating from Union Kempsville High in 1963. An erudite, he began undergraduate studies at Norfolk State University. After 2 years, he completed his studies at Virginia Commonwealth University.
He received Graduate studies at Pace University and Williamsburg University respectively. After being awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Humanities from Wilbur Waters Seminary, he went on to complete Post Graduate studies at Williamsburg University.
Upon entering the work force, Bernard held a variety of high-profile jobs. Among them, he worked as a Vice President for Federal City Engineering in Washington DC. After Religious Studies, he was ordained by the National Association Council of Community Churches. He organized New Covenant Community Church. The church later emerged with Faith Bible Church becoming New Covernant Faith Bible Church. He was elevated and Consecrated as a Bishop under Victory Christian Alliance in October, 1999 by the late Bishop Paul A. Thomas and appointed Northern Jurisdictional Prelate. The ministry was eventually renamed New Covenant Church, where he remained Pastor for 23 years until declining health forced him to retire.
As a consummate musician, Bernard was highly recognized and respected as a church organist in Virginia Beach, Washington, DC, and NYC. His marriage to Carolyn Renee Johnson ended in divorce. He recorded 2 CDs and was the author of several books.
He preceded in death, brother-in-law, Freddie Gregory as a brother.
Left to cherish his memory are 5 sisters; Bernette Gregory, Suedeanna Kirkland, Rosie Olds, Vernice Olds, and Barbara Artis; 2 brothers, Willie Olds, Larry [Karen] Grimstead; godsons, Bobby Dunmore, Dr. Micheal Perry, Russell Battle; Spiritual daughters, Lorrie King [Morris], Joy Sivels; several adopted grandchildren; Spiritual mother, Christine Carter; Spiritual adopted family; Robert, Sam, Andre Carter; Dr, Antoinette [Leonard] Owens, Dorothy C. Carter, Lisa Carter. 1 aunt, Minnie Jordan Williams and a host of relatives and friends.
Condolences(7)-
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Deacon Leigh M. Burton, Sr. says
March 26, 2022 at 3:08 pmMay the Family continue to find comfort in knowing that Bishop Williams has fought a good fight and has kept the faith and is no in His mansion that God has prepared for Him. Sleep on Bishop Williams It as a joy in meeting and knowing You.
Catherine D Lewis says
March 27, 2022 at 8:38 pmHe will be truly missed. We done they good a faithful servant. I am going to miss your cheer me up chats. Keep praising the Lord.
Dr. Ruby L. Allen. says
March 28, 2022 at 1:53 pmI am so saddened by our loss of Bishop Bernard Williams. A Pastor, who knew, understood and taught with authority, A gifted musician and singer with an outstanding gift ..May he find peace and eternal rest in the arms of the Lord
Sincerely with Love,
Bishop P.O. Rodgers says
March 29, 2022 at 1:56 pmTo: The Family of Dr. Bernard Williams
From: Bishop P.O. Rodgers and United Christian Alliance International and Churches, We thank God for the Faithful and Steadfast life of Dr. Williams, A man full of Love, Good works and Wisdom. May he rest in God’s Love and Peace. Let us remember and Cherish his many songs of grace
Now he sings in Glory and his songs are forever recorded in our hearts. We look forward to the great reunion in Glory.
Lyman Brown says
March 30, 2022 at 6:17 pmLyman Brown aka Tim I will miss you my brother I’ll miss you my friend Bishop Bernard Williams rest well my friend in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father you don’t have to worry about no more pain sickness nor sorrow you have definitely earned your wings 💸 until we meet again in those Pearly White Gates of Heaven with you and the great Jimmy Spain I shall never forget you Bishop.Tim. Mr. Brown as you would always call me love you!!!!
Janie Douglas says
March 30, 2022 at 9:35 pmWe share in your grief over the passing of Bishop Bernard Williams, who exhibited kindness, love, encouragement, inspiration, compassion, humor, joy, and faith to many. May our Lord Jesus Christ comfort your hearts and may you find peace in the memories and legacy left behind by Bishop Williams.
With Sympathy,
Janie Douglas and the Hall Family
Tenecia Moncrief says
March 31, 2022 at 11:49 amPrecious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints, Psalm 116:15.
I will miss the physical presence of my Bishop, my Music Director, My Uncle Bernie, my Friend. Holding tight to the lessons he taught me over the years. Sharing in your sorrow and loss