"Life is but a stopping place, a pause in what's to be, a resting place along the road to sweet eternity…."

With hearts full of gratitude for a life&well-lived, wecelebrate the peaceful transition of Mrs. Bernice Bacon to her eternalheavenlyrest on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at the age of 93.She was born on October 29, 1930, in Richmond Hill, Georgia, to the late Donald and Josephine Lee.Bernice's journey was marked by faith, love, and an unwavering commitment to joy.

When asked, she shared fond stories of her childhood, reminiscing about walking the dusty roads of "Dixie" to church and school. She received her education in the Bryan County public school system, laying the foundation for a life dedicated to family, hard work, and a profound reverence for God.

On December 24, 1950,Berniceentered intoholy matrimony with the late William N. Bacon, and together they nurtured a family of seven children.Theyinstilled the values of hard work and the fear of God intheirchildren, leavingalastingmark on their lives. While three children preceded her in death—Mr. Anthony Bacon, Sr., Mrs. Ophelia AnitaAlbro, and Mr. Ricky Bacon,and twograndchildren, Tyrie Albro and Mr. Tony Bacon—Bernice's legacy as a loving and caring mother endured.

Her professional journey took her through the culinary industry and later into the service of the Coastal Georgia AreaCommunityAction Authority, Inc. With a heart for the needy,Bernicededicated herself to various roles, including transportation and clerical positions, with her last position focused on energy assistance. Her passion for helping others extended beyond the workplace, as sheoftenused herpersonalvehicle to assist homebound clients, offering support with a smile, a kind word, and a touch of humor.

In the communityand especially in "Bacontown",shewas affectionately known as "Mama Bernice." Her personable nature, infectious laughter, and playful spirit endeared her to everyone she encountered. Much like a sunflower, she radiated positivity and joy, sowing seeds of inspiration wherever she went.

During her leisure time,Bernicefound joy incooking,solving crossword puzzles,sewing,coloring in hercoloringbook, reading her daily devotion, and engaging in lively conversations with friends over the phone. Always attuned to current events, she remained a vibrant presence in the lives of those around her.She also enjoyed traveling, a few of her favorite places being New Jersey, New Mexico, Italy,and the sandy beaches of Destin, Florida.

A dedicated member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Richmond Hill, Georgia,shewas lovingly referred to as Mother Baconas she served as Mother of the Church.She went above and beyond to nurture the spiritual well-being of her church family. She regularly called and checked in with members of the congregation,as well as,her family, friends,and individuals in the communityoffering words of encouragement, sharing uplifting scriptures, and ensuring that everyone felt connected and cared for. Her phone calls became a source of comfort and joy formany.Evenin the post-pandemic era, she continued to nourish her spirit by tuning into church services on her iPad every Sunday morning, showcasing her unwavering commitment to her faithin God.

Bernice'slife was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and faith. As we celebrate her legacy, let us remember the joy she brought to our lives and carry forward her spirit of positivity, kindness, and unwavering faith in God.

She leaves to cherish so many wonderful memories, her children: Evangelist Gloria Simmons; Ms. Deborah Bacon, bothofMidway, Georgia; Mrs. Janice Bland (Thurman Thomas) of Fayetteville, Georgia; Mrs. Verdell Jones (Randolph Jones, Jr.) of Midway, Georgia. Her brother, Mr. Simon(Darlene)Lee of Mobile, Alabama; her sister, Mrs.ByrdellClark of Brunswick, Georgiaand 14 grand-children: Kimberly (Everett)Greene, Andrew (Montrey)Bland Jr., Steffan E Bacon, Stacy (Tim) James, Nakia Albro, Demetrius Bland, Shayla (Dominick) Parker, Tyra Albro, Tajana Jones, Rashad Albro, Anthony Bacon, Jr., Octavia Bacon,RocquisMartin, Cadence Bland-Thomas; a granddaughter-in-law,Mrs. Mariel Bacon;21 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren;a goddaughter, Mrs. Rose Ferdinand;theStrodderFamily;a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Final and most sacred arrangements are entrusted to the professional care of The Dorchester Funeral Home, 7842 E. Oglethorpe Hwy, Midway, GA.