Photo courtesy of Smith, Bizzell & Warner Funeral Home
Apr 9, 1948 - Jan 10, 2026
Wishing you peace and comfort as you navigate this challenging time. My heart goes out to you.
Linda Barnes Caldwell
January 24, 2026 | Gary, IN | Friend
I’m so sorry for your loss. Please know that your sister will always hold a special place in my heart. I’ll forever remember our appointments, the laughter, and her love for watching Paternity Court while we talked and enjoyed our time together. Sending you and your family my deepest condolences and continued prayers.
Jackie Rosario
January 23, 2026 | Gary, IN
Ms.Bertha was a beautiful soul, a truly lovely person to know. I am honored to have had her as a member of our center. Sending strength and prayers to her wonderful family.
Tajze Frye
January 22, 2026 | Merrillville, IN | Friend
God will continue to wrap his arms around you all . New Friendship usher Ministry .Our hearts and prayers goes out to you all.
Julie Patrick
January 21, 2026 | Merrillville, IN
Bertha will truly be missed. I enjoyed working with Bertha for 37 years. Always had a kind word for everyone. One of a kind. Thank you Bertha, for the heartfelt memories.
Maurice Jordan
January 20, 2026 | Merrillville, IN | Coworker
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. May the Lord give you comfort, strength and peace as you celebrate Bertha's beautiful life.
Jeanie Jackson
January 20, 2026 | Saint John, IN | Acquaintance
My sincere condolences to the Adams-Williams family...
Gloria Mcdonald..NMM member
January 19, 2026
My condolences to Shirley Adam Conley and family so very sorry I can't be with you big sister. Know I will always love you. Keep in touch. RIP Bertha.
Mary Green
January 18, 2026 | Greenfield, IN, IN | Friend
Bertha and I grew up together on Tennessee Street. She was worthey of the beautiful words expressed in her eulogy.
Elaine Matthews
January 17, 2026 | GARY, IN | Friend
Life’s Journey
Life has no straight path, these are bumps, turns, detours and dead-end streets. Everyone has their life’s journey to travel. GOD sent his son Jesus to navigate us safely through.
Bertha’s journey began April 9, 1945. She was the third of six children, born to Eddie Lee and Agnes Adams (deceased), in Gary, Indiana. Her Christian journey began at the age of 11, at Jerusalem Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor EB Joiner. She graduated from Edison High School, class of 1967. After graduating, she was hired at Sears Roebuck, Gary, Indiana, working in the peanut, hot dog and candy department. She formed a lifelong friendship with Barbara Hodges (deceased), Audrey V. Thomas Hall, Linda Winfrey and her Sears family. She transferred to Sears at Southlake Mall working in the major appliances department. Bertha had a fierce competitive spirit. She consistently received awards and accolades. Everyone recognized her as the Sears salesperson saying, “she sold me my appliance”. Bertha had a rewarding, fulfilling career. Retiring after 46 years.
Bertha had a lifelong friend, Geraldine Kindred, her travel buddy, confidante and sister in Christ. During this time the family joined Christ Baptist under the leadership of Pastor Colvin Blanford and later Pastor Lawrence Robertson. She flourished as a Christian, participating in many ministries, Secretary of Sunday School, supporting the Youth Usher Board, Food Pantry, Women’s Day Committee, Voices of Praise and many more. She loved her Christ Baptist family.
God blessed her to meet and marry Cellus Ray Williams, becoming Bertha Adams Williams, gifting her with two bonus children, Apryl and Frederick Williams and three grandchildren, Kyle, Kaleb and Kassidy. Bertha and Cellus helped raise their grandchildren from infancy to the present time. They loved their grandchildren.
After Cellus’ transition, Bertha’s health declined. She was a steadfast believer and her faith never faltered. On January 10, 2026, her earthly journey ceased and her eternal life journey began. Traveling through time and space, resting in her heavenly home, she’ll put on her heavenly robe, no more sickness, no more sorrow, no more pain, only peace and joy. Just praising our savior all day long. She’ll see our loved ones that have gone before. Rest peacefully in the comfort of our Savior’s arm.
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