Ms. Bernice Guines Clay

BERNICE GUINES CLAY was born on August 29, 1931 in Pearl, Mississippi to the late Sherman Holmes, Sr. (Doc) and Dessree Holmes. Bernice was the seventh child born to their union. Eight of her siblings, Sherman Depo, Eugene, Peter, Rachel, Percy (Sonny), Alberta (Berta), Leroy (Comb) and Mary Ann preceded her in death. Her beloved brother, Sherman, Jr. (Bill), is the only remaining sibling. She attended Smith Robinson School and Lanier High School, in Jackson, Mississippi. She loved to play basketball. As a student at Lanier, she was an active player on the girls basketball team. Bernice accepted Christ at an early age. She moved to Detroit, Michigan in the early, 1950's. In Detroit, she attended Cosmetology College. Her specialized style was the gerri curl, earning her the name "Queen of the gerri curl." While in Detroit she continued her Christian walk with Christ, and joined the Wayside Baptist Church. For many years she served as an usher at Wayside, and was known as the "Hat Lady." She definitely loved her hats. Wearing one everyday. While in Detroit, she worked for two doctors, helping to raise their children, as well as, helping maintaining their homes. In the mid-nineties she returned to Mississippi. Upon her return, she continued her Christian walk, at Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church. There she served as a Mother on the Mother Board, trustee and chairperson of the Food bank. Bernice had a variety of hobbies including, gardening, playing cards, camping, playing the lottery, cooking, and shopping. Her travels included traveling abroad with her daughters. Without failing, every year she would donate to her favorite charities: The Red Cross, several churches and museums. She collected and loved her elephants, which she displayed throughout her home. Bernice was affectionately called 'Bunny' by her father. Throughout her life she was a loving caregiver to her family, her parents, brother, Depo and Aunt Lula Brown. Three of her children preceded her in death, Steve Guines, Richard Guines and Patricia Holmes. She leaves to cherish her loving memories: two daughters, Beverly Holmes and Denise Wright (Edward); sons, Curtis Holmes, Anthony Thompson and Deon Guines. Twenty-one grandchildren, forty-five great grandchildren, and four great great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and her devoted brother, Bill. Also an abundance of family and friends who absolutely adored and loved her. She has earned a well deserved rest.

Ms. Bernice Guines Clay

August 29, 1931 - March 31, 2024