Dr. Anson Rabb Bertrand died February 18, 2014 in Augusta, Georgia. He was born in Coryell County, Texas and graduated from the Gatesville, Texas High School in 1941. He received a BS degree from Texas A&M, an M.S. degree from the University of Illinois, and a PhD from Purdue University. He served as Professor of Agronomy and Soil Sciences at Purdue University, and as Research Director for USDA, before becoming Head of the Agronomy Division at the University of Georgia. He was Dean of the College of Agricultural Science at Texas Tech University before becoming Director of Science and Education for the United States Department of Agriculture, and subsequently Assistant Director of Food and Agriculture for U.S. Agency for International Development in Washington. Upon retirement after a 39 year professional career, he consulted in eight foreign countries regarding food and agricultural development. Dr. Bertrand was a National leader in Agronomy and Soils, co-authored a book on soil conservation and published numerous scientific articles based on his research. He served as President of the Soil Science Society of America. Dr. Bertrand served 3 ½ years in the Army during World War II, and 23 years in the Army Reserve. He retired with the rank of Lt. Col. He was a member of the Rotary Club for 23 years and served as President of the Rotary Club of Petersburg, Va. He was a member of the Washington Street United Methodist Church. He was married for 68 years and is survived by his wife, Gloria Jolly Bertrand, originally of Petersburg, Virginia; as well as a sister, Antonece Rogers; daughter, Cynthia Bertrand Smith (Michael); son Dr. Styles Leslie Bertrand (Mary Schorsch); three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. A graveside service will be conducted at 10:00 am Monday, February 24, 2014 at Blandford Cemetery in Petersburg, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Washington Street United Methodist Church of Petersburg, 22 E Washington St, Petersburg, VA 23803. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
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4 Entries
Uncle Bert, I have the fondest memories of you growing up and have taken many pictures and we have many family videos (thank GOD)so we can pass your legacy on. I only realized later on in my adult life just how influential and important you have been. You have accomplished so very much and I stand proud to call you my Uncle Bert! You had many people who cared for you at your service, although I know I don't need to tell you that. You were looking down upon us. You know just how nice of a service it was. You will always be forever in my heart. I miss you so very much. I just wish I could have seen you one more time this summer, and I will now miss calling you up and wishing you a happy birthday. May you rest in peace. I love you Uncle Bert
Wayne Howell
March 5, 2014
Dr. Bertrand was a very kind man who used his prestige to help thousands of people. Many became professors and leaders thanks to his encouragement for them to pursue higher education.
Some are now in Heaven and are glad to see him.
My condolences to Mrs. Bertrand and Family.
We will miss him.
Sincerely, Tito F. Beça, Ph.D. UGA, Agronomy 1971
February 26, 2014
Gods peace and comfort be with the family during this time
Harold &Jeannie Necessary
February 25, 2014
We will miss you Uncle Bert. Rest in Peace. Aunt Gloria, Les and Mary, Brandon and all the rest of the family, may God grand you peace and comfort.
Kimberly Howell
February 25, 2014
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