Virginia Bert

Virginia Bert, a beloved educator, devoted Christian, and cherished member of her community, went home to be with the Lord on January 29, 2024. She was born Virginia Bryant to Ruby and Esco Bryant on March 11, 1939, in Berry, Alabama. Growing up alongside her sister Genoice, Virginia's early years were shaped by her deep faith in Christ, instilled in her from a young age by her Christian upbringing.
Virginia's academic journey began at Fayette County Training School, where she excelled both academically and athletically, becoming a star athlete and graduating as the valedictorian of the class of 1957. Her valedictory speech, titled "Gains From High School," foreshadowed her future dedication to education and learning.
Continuing her education at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Virginia earned her Bachelor's Degree in Social Science in 1963, concurrently obtaining her teaching certification from the state of Alabama. That same year, she married John, beginning a loving partnership that lasted over 52 years until John's passing in 2016. Their daughter, Scarlett, was born in 1964.
Relocating to Detroit in 1965, Virginia pursued further education and received her teaching certification from the Michigan Department of Education in the early 1970s. She embarked on a distinguished career with the Detroit School System, specializing in social studies and history, subjects she was deeply passionate about. She completed a Masters Degree in Education from Wayne State University in 1982.
Virginia's commitment to her profession was evident throughout her nearly four-decade tenure, during which she touched the lives of countless students. Her dedication and expertise were recognized in 1996 when she received The Outstanding Teacher Award from Newsweek Magazine and WDIV-Channel 4.
Her tenure at Hampton Middle School from 1972 until her retirement in 2000 marked a significant chapter in her career, where her love for teaching and history flourished. Beyond the classroom, Virginia remained active in church ministries, including Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Women's Ministry, and Feed My Sheep, demonstrating her unwavering faith and commitment to service.
Virginia was a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and an esteemed member of Top Ladies of Distinction.
Virginia leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and compassion. She is survived by her daughter, Scarlett (Duane) Shaw; grandson, Marc Cameron Shaw; sister, Genoice Nalls (widow-Charlie); nephews Franklin Whitson (Essie) and Jeffery Whitson (Mary Ann); niece, Ruby Whitson-Mills (Kenneth); Godchildren, Jeremy, Aaron (LaDonna), and Rachel Richardson, Kimberly Jackson-Moreau (Bony), Courtney Jackson Kenner ( Keith), Sharice Nelson, Emilia Bibah (Godwin), Templer Uruejoma and Zandra Abron; and A host of great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Virginia's impact on her students, colleagues, and community will be remembered fondly, and her spirit will continue to inspire all those whose lives she touched.
9
Feb
Visitation
04:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Fisher Funeral Home 24501 Five Mile Road Redford Township, MI 48239
10
Feb
Funeral Service
11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Church of the New Covenant 3426 Puritan Avenue Detroit, Michigan 48238