Bernice Thelma Greenleaf

A Celebration of Life
2nd Timothy 4:7 - "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."
With hearts full of love and gratitude for her life, we celebrate the homegoing of Bernice Thelma Nedab Greenleaf. She transitioned peacefully from earth to glory on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in the comfort of her home. We thank God for blessing her to see 101 centurion years.
Aunt Thelma's parents were the late Mr. John E. Nedab and the late Mrs. Margie Strand Nedab of Accomac, Virginia. Aunt Thelma's siblings were four brothers: Fred, Robert, Rufus, and Warner. Her sisters were Nola, Teressa, Mildred, Oneda, Angela, Marie, and Esther. As you know, Aunt Thelma was the "baby." At a young age she became a member of Saint Luke A.M.E. Church and served as the musician for the choir.
Sister Greenleaf was educated in the Accomack County Public School System. Her early education began at Daugherty Elementary School. She was an M.N.S. Graduate, Class of 1939. She later attended Virginia State College in Petersburg, VA, where her major was Elementary Education. Her teaching career began at Mt. Nebo Elementary and Makemie Park Elementary Schools.
Years later, seeking financial stability, Aunt Thelma began her working career with "Mother Bell" Telephone Company in New York City. She worked there for twenty-five years. Then, with her outstanding work history, she transferred to AT&T Phone Company in Newark, New Jersey. They were pleased with her work ethic and abilities. After accumulating 35 years of service, Aunt Thelma retired and returned to the Eastern Shore of Virginia, where she resided with her niece Claudia.
Frequently, Aunt Thelma's nephew, Gregory Burton, and niece, Tamekia, would visit and discuss events and memories of the past. Now, when Aunt Thelma, Claudia, Phyllis, and Ollie K. gathered, something special was sure to happen: appointments, shopping at Salisbury Mall, and eating at Red Lobster-enjoyed by all.
Excitedly, Aunt Thelma returned to where it all began: Saint Luke African Methodist Episcopal Church in Daugherty, Virginia. She was happy to be back with her "Church Family." It was truly a "Grand Reunion." She was immediately reinstated at Saint Luke A.M.E. Church under the late Rev. Freeman. Shortly thereafter, Rev. Dr. Herbert Gibbs and First Lady Gibbs were met with open arms and smiles from Aunt Thelma. Now, as you can see, Sister Greenleaf is blessed with her present pastor and adored friend, Reverend Pamela J. Watford.
Mrs. Greenleaf lived a life filled with grace, faith, and love-dedicating her life to Christ. She leaves to cherish her memory: one lovingly devoted niece, Claudia Mears; one beloved nephew, Gregory Burton; great-nieces whom were dear to her, Jacqueline C. Nedab, Cathy K. Nedab, Kim Johnson (Elvis), Teresa Johnson (Samuel); loving great-nephews Ivan R. Nedab (Doraynia), Dalbert P. Nedab (Yvonne), the late James A. Nedab, Jr. (Ida), Floyd T. Nedab, Rodney J. Nedab (Robin), Darnell Peters (Brenda); 18 great-great nieces and nephews, 54 great-great-great nieces and nephews, 4 great-great-great-great nieces and nephews, and a host of cousins, friends, and her Church Family.
Submitted with Love, The Family