Bertha McCallister

Bertha V. McCallister HERTFORD - Bertha V. McCallister, 94, formerly of Norview Heights in Norfolk, went to be with her Lord and Savior Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2009, after a lengthy battle with dementia. Born Bertha Florence VanReenen on Feb. 6, 1915 in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, she earned her registered nursing degree from Laird Memorial Hospital in West Virginia in 1941. She worked at Beckley Hospital in West Virginia and Leigh Memorial and Lake Taylor Hospital in Norfolk. Bertha was a faithful member of the Tabernacle Church of Norfolk for more than 48 years where she worked in the nursery, taught Sunday school, and was a member of the Ephesians Sunday school class. Her other activities included work with the Senior Citizens, Lydia Group and Christian Women's Club. Bertha was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Gilbert N. McCallister; two brothers; two sisters; one son, Lloyd R. McCallister; and one grandson, Bryan McCallister. Survivors include three sons, Gilbert McCallister Jr. of Richmond, Va., Van McCallister of Terlton, Okla., and Wynn McCallister of Hertford, N.C.; their spouses, seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, three sisters-in-law in Ohio and West Virginia; several nieces and nephews scattered across the country. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8: p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, at Rosewood- Kellum Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 7, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Rosewood Memorial Park. Following the burial, the family invites everyone back to the funeral home for a time of fellowship and refreshments. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be sent to her Ephesians Class at Tabernacle Church of Norfolk, 7000 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23505. Please share your love and condolences with the family at www.mem.com.