Bernadine Williams

Sunrise: December 25, 1939 Sunset: June 27, 2025
Bernadine Williams, affectionately known to many as "Granny," gained her heavenly wings on June 27, 2025, at the age of 85. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, she was the beloved daughter of Ruth Myart and Edward Walker. She moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1974, where she continued to build a beautiful life rooted in faith, family, and community.
Bernadine's life was a testament to love, strength, and grace. She dedicated 25 years of loyal service to Georgia Pacific, where she retired with honor and pride. A faithful member of Stones Church, formerly known as Christian Life Center (CLC), Bernadine served in both the hospitality and productions departments during her earlier years. Her heart for service, paired with her unwavering faith, shaped the way she loved and led her family and community.
She had a smile that could brighten anyone's soul and a presence that left a lasting impression wherever she went. Known for her classic elegance, Bernadine didn't just get dressed, she dressed down and always made sure her style spoke before she did. Whether enjoying her favorite jazz music, spending time with family and friends, or lending a helping hand to someone in need, she did it all with grace and love. Bernadine cherished her friendships deeply, and each of her friends held a special place in her heart.
Bernadine took pride in being a woman of God. She accepted Christ at an early age and remained rooted in her faith throughout her entire life. She was the monarch of her family the spiritual anchor, the nurturer, and the safe place for so many. Even those outside of her immediate family called her "Granny" because her love and wisdom extended beyond bloodlines. To know Granny was too truly to love her.
Bernadine was a proud and devoted mother to eight children: Wanda, Cynthia, Vernon Sr., Marnita, Robert Sr., Cheryl, Stephanie ("Baby Cakes"), and Mitchell ("Baby Boy").
She shared a special bond with her dear friend and companion, Lee Hibler, whom she loved and cared for deeply until his passing. She leaves to cherish her memory of her children: Cynthia Killingsworth of Kalamazoo, Vernon (LaShaun) Robinson of Ohio, Cheryl (Dennis) McPherson of Ohio, Stephanie (Donald) Brooks of Kalamazoo, and Mitchell (Deidra) Williams of Florida.
She also leaves behind her sisters: Rochelle Young of Indiana, Linda Myart of Illinois, and Robin (Meredith) of Illinois. Bernadine's legacy continues through her 36 grandchildren, 115 great- grandchildren, 32 great-great-grandchildren all of whom she loved dearly and held close to her heart.
She was preceded in death by her mother Ruth Myart, her father Edward Walker, her daughters Marnita McAllister and Wanda Scott, her son Robert Robinson Sr., her grandsons Antonio McPherson and Rodney Robinson Sr., and her great-grandchildren Willie Richardson, Suniya Brooks, DaQuarius Ervin, and Philliph Robinson.
"Her children rise up and call her blessed." – Proverbs 31:28