Bernice Pettis

In Loving Memory of Bernice Crite Williams PettisJune 23, 1933 – May 13, 2025 On May 13, 2025, our Heavenly Father called home one of His most cherished roses, Bernice Crite Williams Pettis, who peacefully transitioned to her eternal rest. Bernice was born on June 23, 1933, in Cayce, Mississippi, the fifth of six children born to the late Thurston and Ida Mae Crite. She was preceded in death by her beloved siblings Emma, Louise, James, and Ferline Crite; her son, Aaron Johnson; and two precious grandchildren, JaeDesilyn McCray and Andrea Williams. At an early age, Bernice accepted Christ as her Savior and became a member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Barton, Mississippi, under the guidance of Pastor J.T. Thomas. In the 1980s, she joined Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church Boxtown, where she was a devoted and active member under Pastor T.L. McCray Sr. Bernice faithfully served on Usher Board I, the Mission Society, Bible Study, Sunday School, and most devotedly, the Mother’s Board until her health declined. She was also a member of the Boxtown Community Choir. Bernice married the love of her life, Willie B. Williams, and together they were blessed with five children: Barbara, James, Carl, Timothy, and Sandra. After Willie’s passing in 1961, Bernice relocated from West Memphis, Arkansas, to Memphis, Tennessee, to be closer to her family. As a devoted mother, she lovingly raised her children with unwavering faith and unconditional love. Later, Bernice was blessed to find love again. On December 27, 1978, she married A.J. Pettis, and they shared a wonderful union until his passing on July 9, 1999. A pillar of her family and community, Bernice was known for her strong faith in God. She resided in Cordova, Tennessee, until her peaceful departure. She leaves to cherish her memory five loving children: Barbara Davidson of Cordova, TN; James Ray Williams (Denise), Carl Williams (Linda), both of Memphis, TN; Timothy Williams (Linda) of Lewisville, TX; and Sandra Williams Harrington (Robert) of Cordova, TN. She is also survived by her dear sister, Ida B. Robinson of Douglasville, GA; sisters-in-law Lucille Patterson and Glenda Faye Gipson (Alfred) of Memphis, TN; seven grandchildren: Tara Brown, Toi Williams, Candance Miller (Marcus), Jeremy Williams, Travis Venzant (Erin), Alexis Dailey and Dewayne Allen (Lola); eight great-grandchildren; her bonus daughter, Tammy Wright; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure. She was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.

Bernice Pettis

June 23, 1933 - May 13, 2025