Mrs. Bernice Elizabeth Montgomery

"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.'' (Proverbs 31) On August 10, 1931, Richard and Pearlie Jones, of Rankin County became the proud parents of a bouncing baby girl, who they named Bernice Elizabeth Jones. Rankin County was known at the time as Langford, MS where she grew to love the country life. Bernice's mother died in 1935 when she was just (4) four years old. Her mother's sister, Willie Mae, and her husband, Whitfield Webb, (both, deceased) raised Bernice as their own. Her sisters, Fannie Brandford of Forest, MS; and Annie Collier of Laurel, MS also proceeded her in death. At an early age, she joined Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Rev. D.W. Williams, and was baptized in Brush Creek. She also attended school at Mt. Nebo. Later, she and her aunt joined True Vine M.B. Church under the leadership of Rev. IL Lillian. After moving to Jackson, she met and fell in love with Otha Bell Montgomery. They were married for over forty-five years. To this union, (4) four sons were born. The entire family joined Jordan Grove M.B. Church, under the leadership of Rev. C.F.Jordan. Bernice was a faithful member, who worked as secretary, choir member and later she became choir president. She went on to work at (MPI), Mississippi Product Industries, which was one of the most prestigious jobs in Jackson during that time. MPI made furniture for Sears Roebuck & Co. When she was not inside the Plant working, she was allowed to operate her business of selling snacks and cold drinks to her fellow coworkers. After MPI closed, she expanded her skillset by obtaining her license as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) where she nursed many elderly patients throughout the Jackson area. She was no stranger to hard work and was a ''jack of all trades." People in her community called her the "Can Lady," because she walked for miles picking up cans to sell to the nearby Can Man Company, which is still in operation today. She also loved going to secondhand stores and garage sales to find the latest "hidden treasures." She was a talented gardener, cook, and strong mother figure. After the death of her husband, Bernice returned to Rankin County and rejoined with True Vine Baptist Church, and was a faithful member until her health failed, just a few months ago. She lived in the community of Brandon, just minutes from the church, she loved singing and worshiping with members of her faith. She also looked forward to spending time with other seniors during church field trips. After having reached 94 years of age, she has faithfully executed all of life's responsibilities and the Lord has called her from labor to reward. She leaves to cherish her memory, four sons: Otha Montgomery, jr. (Cassie) Chicago, Illinois; Kent Montgomery (Lorraine) Brandon, MS; Ty Montgomery (Andrea) Murphy, Texas; and Don Montgomery of Brandon, MS. She also leaves 15 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and host of family, friends and loved ones.

Mrs. Bernice Elizabeth Montgomery

August 10, 1930 - April 21, 2025