Bertha Williams

Bertha Williams VIRGINIA BEACH - Bertha Williams passed on to a better place Sept. 30, 2008, after 80 years. She was born in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where she went to school and played on her high school basketball team. She enjoyed playing softball and many other outdoor sports. There she met a handsome Marine who had returned from World War II. She married Reynold W. Williams June 25, 1947, and moved to Virginia Beach with their young daughter, Brenda W. Harrison, in 1951. Their second daughter, Denise L. Williams, was born in Virginia Beach. They spent 61 years together building a home, raising their daughters and then enjoying their retirement. She was also a member of Grace Brethren Church since 1959. Bertha's family was with her throughout her final days. She possessed a strong will, independent spirit, unwavering faith, love and devotion for her husband's large and wonderful family. She loved being outdoors and loved to watch snow fall or any facet of nature. She retired from F.W. Woolworth after 20 years. Bertha was predeceased by her granddaughter, Kristina Bledsoe; her mother and father, Judith and Clarence Janey; brothers, Amos and Harris Janey; and son-in-law Gary Harrison. Along with her husband and daughters, she is survived by her grandson, Aron Harrison and wife Dana; five great-grandchildren, Amethyst, JL, Corbin, Brysen and Nolan; and special family friend, Harolyn Katherman. Although Bertha was not able to remember all of her grandchildren, she certainly remembered Amethyst and all of the love and laughter that she brought to her. The remembrance celebration will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Bayside Chapel, with Pastor Fred Devan officiating. Burial will follow in Princess Anne Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 6 to 7 p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer's Association. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.