Obituary of Bernice Black Stephens

Bernice Black Stephens, 82, widow of Rev. Donald Herbert Stephens, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, February 3, 2021. Mrs. Stephens was born in Crabtree Township, NC to the late William Roy Black and Carrie King Black. She was a certified medical assistant. Bernice served with Rev. Don throughout his pastorate by teaching Sunday school and participating in church activities. She was a member of Laurel Baptist Church where she served as an office volunteer. She was a member of the Esther Sunday School class and the Young at Heart group. Her faith was her strength. She recognized God as the creator, Jesus as the one who died to save us from our sins, and the Holy Spirit who is our mediator which makes intersession for us to God. Bernice loved to try new recipes and was an avid reader and puzzle solver. She enjoyed planning and preparing meals for family get togethers, as well as dining out and spending time with relatives and friends. She had a strong sense of family and values and loved her dog, Joy. Surviving are a daughter, Connie Cantrell and husband Michael; and two grandchildren, Allison Cantrell Dyer and husband Matt and Justin Cantrell; and six great grandchildren, Adriana Dyer, Holden Dyer, McKinley Dyer, Landon Cantrell, Logan Cantrell, and Lucas Cantrell. She was predeceased by three brothers, Frank Black, Clyde Black, and James Black; and a sister, Sally Lou Wimpey. Graveside services will be 12 noon Monday at Cannon Memorial Park.