Bernice Willey – Metropolitan Funeral
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.
