Bernice Adams

Bernice Elaine Adams, affectionately known as "Nana Bern," was born on October 3, 1945, to Ethel Vance Thomas and Edwin Harris. She was the youngest of four siblings and was raised on the Eastside of Jacksonville. Bernice graduated from Matthew W. Gilbert High School and was a proud "Marching Panther". She continued her education at Bethune-Cookman College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology.

Bernice dedicated more than thirty years of service to the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services (HRS), now the Department of Children and Families (DCF). Helping others was not just her profession, it was her purpose. She carried that same spirit of service into her personal life as well.

An avid reader and gifted researcher, Bernice possessed a remarkable curiosity and depth of knowledge. There was rarely a subject she could not speak about with insight and thoughtfulness. Whether the topic was politics, history, or health; family and friends knew she was the one to call for information, guidance, or advice. Bernice was also the "official" family historian and record keeper, never forgetting a birthday and always sending a card, often with a thoughtful note and a check tucked inside.

Bernice married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Henry "Archie" Adams. Through life's many accomplishments and celebrations, their marriage remained grounded in humility, devotion, and love. They were truly made for one another.

Together they shared their love and values with their children, Cheryl and Henry (Hank), son-in-law Terry, and most especially with their beloved grandchildren Terry (T.J.), Jordyn, and Henley, who brought her immense joy.

For Bernice, family and friends meant everything. She was our matriarch, a guiding presence, a mother to many, a cherished aunt, sister, and loyal friend. Her life embodied the virtues of faith, hope, and love. Above all, Bernice Elaine Adams was love.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ethel V. Thomas and Edwin Harris; her sisters Evelyn Edwards, Delores Roberts, and Jeannette Goa; and her brother Eugene Thomas.

She leaves to cherish her memory and continue her legacy of love: her devoted husband, Judge Henry L. Adams, Jr.; her daughter Cheryl Taylor (Terry); her son Henry Adams II; her beloved grandchildren Terry Taylor Jr., Jordyn Taylor, and Henley Adams; sister in-law Laverne Thomas; cousin Delores Green; nieces Deborah Davis, Paula Moss, Renee Edwards, and Carmel Johnson; nephews Canard Thomas, Donald Robinson and Tarrence Dunbar; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She also leaves special family friends Dr. Feacher and Elizabeth Williams, Ruby Ann Robinson, and her family in faith at Mt. Olive AME and FranklinTown Community Church of Amelia Island.

Bernice's life was a shining example of kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love.

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Matthew 5:16

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