Bernice Walton

Today we celebrate the beautiful life and memory of Bernice Johnson Walton. The daughter of the late Rudolph Johnson and Mary Riley Johnson.
Bernice was born on May 21, 1949 in Orange County, North Carolina, where she grew up surrounded by the love of family and community. A proud native of Hillsborough, she attended Central High School. She later contributed her time and talents to the textile industry before transitioning into education with Orange County Schools, where she served her community with care and dedication.
Bernice was a devoted wife, nurturing mother, adoring grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and treasured friend. She married John Walton in 1966, and together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family. She was a constant source of encouragement and pride to her son, Marvin Walton (wife, Sonya Latta-Walton), and daughter, Marleen (Walton) Breeze, widow of the late Vester Breeze.
Bernice was known by all who met her as a loving, kind-hearted woman who valued family above all else. Whether caring for a loved one, offering words of encouragement, or simply sharing a laugh, Bernice had a special way of making others feel seen and cherished.
Her life was a testament to the power of kindness and unconditional love. Bernice was a sweet and gentle soul whose joy for life was felt by all who knew her. One of her greatest pleasures was swing dancing, especially when sharing the floor with her favorite dance partner, John Walton. But it was her role as a grandmother where her love truly shined. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren- whether it was taking them bowling or skating, treasure hunting at yard sales or offering a listening ear and wise advice on matters of the heart. She made each child feel special, never missing a birthday or important milestone. Her unwavering love, thoughtful presence, and kind spirit created lasting memories that will live on through her children and grandchildren.
Bernice's vibrant spirit, radiant laughter, and love for music defined her presence. A faithful and active member of Hunter's Chapel A.M.E. Church in Mebane, NC, she served joyfully in many auxiliaries, including the Usher Board, Gospel, Youth, and Mass Choirs, Pastor's Aide Committee, supported the Kitchen Committee whenever possible, and was a member of the Gospel Melodies Choir in the 1970s. Her joyful service was a reflection of her deep faith, strong values, and generous heart. She loved to sing, laugh, and spend meaningful time with her family.
On the morning of Thursday, May 8, 2025 God said: "Come unto me my child and rest." Bernice Walton, 75 years old, peacefully departed this world bidding us all farewell.
Cherishing her memories are her beloved husband of 59 years, John H. Walton; her devoted children: Marvin (wife, Sonya Latta) Walton of Efland, NC and daughter, Marleen Walton Breeze of Hillsborough, NC; her brothers, Thomas Johnson of Chapel Hill, NC and Percy Johnson of Mebane, NC; her sister, Mary C. (husband, Brigadier General (Ret.) Jimmy) McMillian of Chapel Hill, NC; and sister-in-law, Carolyn Torain of Hillsborough, NC. Bernice also leaves a legacy of love to her eight (8) grandchildren: Matthew Walton, Matthias Walton, Shavon Bradsher, Melody (husband, Chaun) Cypress, Chenoa J. Breeze, Keith Riley, and Vance Riley, Jr. (wife, Ashley); along with eleven (11) beautiful great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Randolph Johnson, Bobby Johnson, Colin Johnson, Ervin Johnson, David Johnson, and Charlie Andrew "Cheetah" Johnson; her nephew Randolph Johnson Jr.; sister-in-law, Carolyn Johnson; and her dear son-in-law, Vester Breeze.
Services
Public Viewing/walk through
Friday
May 16, 2025
1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Sharpe Funeral Home, Inc,
520 Rosenwald St.
Burlington, NC 27217
Wake-with the Family present
Saturday
May 17, 2025
12:30 PM to 1:00 PM
Hunter's Chapel AME Church
201 Buckhorn Rd.
Mebane, NC 27302
Funeral Service
Saturday
May 17, 2025
1:00 PM
Hunter's Chapel AME Church
201 Buckhorn Rd.
Mebane, NC 27302
Interment following funeral service
Saturday
May 17, 2025
Hunter's Chapel AME Church
201 Buckhorn Rd.
Mebane, NC 27302