Bernice Easley transitioned from this earthly life to eternal life at Sentra CarePlex Hospital, Hampton, VA on May 2, 2024. She was born February 28, 1937, in Axton, Va to Layfette and Viola Watkins. She was the middle daughter of out 9 children. Bernice was a faithful member of New Sharon Grove Baptist Church in Axton at an early age. She received her education from the Pittsylvania County school system.

Bernice married the love of her life Roy Easley on December 19, 1959. To this union were born three children: Wesley, Vickie, and the late Valerie. In 1965 they moved to Hackensack to build their life. She worked as a presser in numerous dry cleaners during her time in New Jersey. She was devoted member of Mt Holiness in Hackensack, NJ. After retiring, she moved to Hampton Virginia.

Bernice was a kind, caring and giving person who always put the needs of her family before her own. She was a strong woman who faced every challenge in her life with courage and dignity. Bernice was a source of inspiration to us all and she will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives she touched.

Growing up, Bernice was always there for us, whether we needed help in the kitchen or just a shoulder to cry on. She was a woman of strong faith, and she instilled in us the importance of family, hard work and doing what is right. Bernice was a true role model who we will always look up to.

In addition to her parents, Bernice was preceded in death by her daughter Valerie Easley and granddaughter Taylor Johnson. She was also preceded in death by five brothers; Nathaniel Watkins, Noye Watkins, Tom Watkins, Melvin Watkins, Junior) Watkins, and Alvin Watkins; two sisters Moselle Harris and Vesteen Draper.

Those left to cherish her memory are husband Roy Easley, her sister Barbara Easley; her children Wesley (Joyce), Vickie, Her seven grandchildren Marquis (Karen), Miguel, Bryan, Schaniek, Mershan, Mark and Krimaya; her nine great-grandchildren Brianna, Miguel, Terri, Jordan, Maxwell, MJ, Mason, Trey and True; her great great-grandchild Bailey, nephews, nieces, and a host of other relatives.

Bernice’s life was a testament to the beauty of a life well-lived, the lives she touched, and the love she shared. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy will bloom eternally in the hearts of those she has left behind.

A visitation service will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. with the funeral service at 12 noon at New Sharon Grove Baptist Church, 3593 Wyatt Farm Rd., Axton, VA with Dr. Willard Maxwell, Eulogist. Interment will follow at the church cemetery.

A public viewing will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024, at Hairston Funeral Home, 301 Fayette St., Martinsville, VA between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Live streaming of the funeral service will be available at Hairston Funeral Home live via Facebook.

Courteous, efficient, and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.