Bernice Evans

Bernice Louise Bennett Evans, daughter of the late Alfred Bennett and Virginia Scott Bennett, was born on April 9, 1936 in Lakewood, New Jersey. She was called home on January 19, 2019.

Bernice attended grade school in Lakewood, NJ. She excelled in her studies. Bernice met the love her life, Henry Thomas Evans, and began their family. She married Henry on August 18, 1958 and had their first dance to the song, “At Last”, by Etta James, celebrating the love that they had found in each other.

Bernice greatly valued education and wanted to set the standard of excellence for her lineage.  She went back to school and obtained her G.E.D at the age of 53.  She continued her education at Smith Institute of Cosmetology in Asbury Park, New Jersey. This afforded her the opportunity to pursue a career as a beautician. Bernice’s heart to serve transitioned her from cosmetology to care giving as a Certified Nurse’s Assistant which is the career path that led her into retirement.  

Bernice was baptized in 1949 at Macedonia Baptist Church in Lakewood, New Jersey. She served this ministry faithfully until she was called home.  She had a servant’s heart and served in many auxiliaries: Usher Board, Missionary Ministry, Nurse’s Guild, and the Feeding program. Her dedication and faithful service permitted her to be amongst the oldest members of the Macedonia Baptist Church family.

Bernice’s serving was not confined to the church walls; in fact, it spilled over into the larger Lakewood community where she was affectionately known as Mommy, Grandma, and Mrs. Bernice.

Bernice was a past member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She frequently opened her heart and home to those that she found in need.  Bernice never met a stranger and was a champion advocate for the underdog.  Her beautiful smile, kind heart, and encouraging words inspired many to live better and do better. Everyone felt loved and valued in her presence!  Of all of her accomplishments, Bernice’s family was her GREATEST treasure!

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 50 years, Henry Thomas Evans; twin daughters; sisters; Barbara Bennett, Shirley Jones, and Jill Bennett of California.

She leaves to cherish her legacy, seven children, Pastor Linda Bivins of Newark, NJ, Norman Thomas Evans of Norfolk, VA, Jeffrey Lynn Evans (Toni) of Lakewood, NJ, Roxanne Virginia Evans  Taylor (George) of Villa Rica, GA, Valerie Anne Evans of Lakewood, NJ, Kevin Lewis Evans of Villa Rica, GA, and Vanessa Darlene Evans of Chesapeake, VA; 16 grandchildren; 44 great grandchildren; 6 great great grandchildren; siblings, Alfred Bennett of Long Branch, NJ, Essieleen Bennett of Neptune, NJ, and Joan Daniels of Red Bank, NJ; aunt,  Eloise Showell, that is 106 years old and lives in Alexandria, VA; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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