Bernice Constella Paulk

A TIME TO BE BORN
Bernice Constella Williams Paulk was born on October 24, 1933, as the second of three children to the late Vanderbilt and Drewcilla Morgan Williams in Havana, Florida. She was predeceased by her husband, Cleveland Paulk Sr., eldest son, Cleveland Paulk, Jr., sister Iristine W. Laing, and brother Johnny Williams.

A TIME TO DEVELOP
Bernice's Christian fellowship began as a child, worshiping with her family at Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in Havana, Florida. At an early age, she accepted Christ as her Personal Savior and became a member of St. John A.M.E. Church in South Miami, Florida.

Bernice received her first two years of public education in Havana, Florida. Upon moving to South Miami, Florida with her family, she attended J.R. E. Lee Elementary School. She continued her education at George Washington Carver High School in Coconut Grove, Florida, and graduated in the Progressors of '52 Class. She was chosen as High School Queen (Miss Carver High) in 1949. After graduating in 1952 from high school, Bernice attended Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, Florida, on the "highest of seven hills", where she received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. Later, a Master of Science degree was obtained from Nova Southeastern University.

A TIME TO SERVE
In 1950, Bernice's family moved to Richmond Heights. She was one of the first teenagers to become a member of Mt Pleasant (Martin Memorial) A.M.E. Church Family. Her diligent service as a servant of God included being Secretary of the Mass Choir, President of the Women's Missionary, President of Stewardess Board #1, and Member of the Hospitality and Nutrition Committee. Her services continued as the Chairperson of the Floral Ministry, Sunday School Teacher, Bible Study Teacher, Organizer and Director of Vacation Bible School (1976-2006), Bulletin Board and Decorating Committee, Poem and Play Writer, Member of the Seniors Ministry, Christian Education Committee, and the Lay Organization.
Bernice loved the Lord and always worked for the praise and uplifting of His Kingdom; her evangelistic efforts included purchasing Bibles, "What must I do to be saved?" tracts, and other religious materials to give to those she met as she journeyed through this land, telling them to "put God First" in their lives. She also sent out "Our Daily Bread" Devotional to the sick and shut-in.
After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from FAMU, Bernice returned to Miami (Richmond Heights) and was employed by the Dade County Public School System. She worked at Frank C. Martin Elementary School for 12 years, and in 1970, due to the integration of the schools, she was transferred to Miami Heights Elementary School. She remained there until she retired in 1991(21years). Her retirement allowed her memorable times with her family, especially the grandchildren and friends.

TIME OF UNITY AND GRACE
Bernice met Cleveland Paulk Sr. in 1949. They were married in 1953, and three sons were born to their union. Years later, a daughter was added to the family. The family multiplied with a daughter-in-law, grandchildren, and continued to increase with great-grandchildren. Family and friends cherished her cooking and love for baking, especially during the Christmas holiday. Bernice enjoyed interior design and crafting visual arrangements.

A TIME TO MOURN
On Sunday, August 3, 2025, Bernice heard her Master's voice saying, "Come unto Me and I will give you rest." Left with precious memories are two loving sons, Leander and Trevor (Deirdra), daughter, Paula, grandchildren: Ashley, Tara (Julio), Trevor II, Torri, and Taylor. Her great-grandchildren: Kelli, Tyland, Ashton, Amari, Jacobe, and Jaxson; brother-in-laws: Ralph & Adolphus Paulk. She leaves to mourn a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, a close friend, Dorothy Alexander, and many other friends and loved ones. Bernice Paulk was affectionately known as "Auntie Bernice" and will be greatly missed.

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