Berta Gene Little

Berta Gene Little, of Rockport, Texas joined her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, while surrounded by her family in San Antonio. Born December 10, 1932, to Gene and Louise Shults, Berta was a native and lifelong resident of Rockport, Texas. She graduated from Rockport High School in 1951 and married her high school sweetheart, James T. "Jimmy" Little on June 9, 1951, after three years of courtship. Shortly after they were wed, Jimmy reported to the Army and they were stationed in San Antonio and Lawton, Oklahoma until 1953. She and Jimmy returned to Rockport to continue their lives and start a family together, continuing their many Army friendships throughout their lives.
Berta grew up in the First Baptist Church of Rockport and spent her adult life attending the First Presbyterian Church of Rockport where she raised their family in the church, having an active church role including service on various committees, as well as serving as an Elder. Well known for her innate ability and willingness to prepare a wonderful meal for 2 or 20, Berta learned to cook with her mother, Louise. While everything was always delicious, the desserts she prepared were legendary, having sparked many a quarrel for the "last piece" among her grandchildren.
The Texas Hill Country held a special place in Berta's life, having spent many weekends and holidays with family and friends in and around Leakey, Utopia, Reagan Wells and Concan. Jimmy and Berta made many special friends throughout the country while travelling in their RVs, rekindling friendships each year while enjoying cool summers in Colorado and beyond.
Berta would probably say that she lived an ordinary and simple life, but those of us who had the incredible fortune of knowing her would disagree. The way she lived her life was nothing short of extraordinary. Berta brought warmth and love with her wherever she went. Never meeting a stranger, she generously shared that love with everyone she encountered. Since Berta's passing, many people have shared stories of how she impacted their lives and made them feel loved and valued.
Berta made the world a better place. Through her life she taught us all how to live humbly and how to love selflessly. She will be remembered for the love she showered over her family and friends along with her unselfish desire to serve others with kindness. The family joked that she truly thrived on having someone to worry about, even when her own health had deteriorated. What a wonderful example she was for us all! She will truly be missed by many.
Berta is preceded in death by her husband James T. Little and infant son. Berta is survived by her children: daughter Laurie Nelson and husband Marshall; son Jeff Little and wife Mary; and daughter Luanne Sammons and husband Tom. Berta's grandchildren include Lindsey Danielson and husband Aaron, Annie Dahm and husband Jeff, Rosalyn Yeary and husband Josh, Larsen Little, James Garrett Little, Callie Rogers and husband Cason, Sterling Sammons and wife Jessica, Luke Sammons and wife Bethany, and Travis Sammons and wife Shay. She is also survived by 17 great-grandchildren who she adored greatly.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 29 at the First Presbyterian Church of Rockport. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to First Presbyterian Church, 301 Hwy 35 N, Rockport TX 78382 or The Aransas County Historical Society, P.O. Box 702, Rockport, TX 78381.
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