Bernice Dewberry

With heartfelt love and deep admiration, we celebrate the remarkable life of our dear Mother Bernice Dewberry (aka BeDe). She passed away peacefully at the age of 101 years young on February 28th, 2025. 

She was born to Birdie Turner and Thomas M. Carey Sr. on December 27, 1923 in Oktaha, Oklahoma, Muskogee County. Bernice was the fourth child out of six children. She accepted Christ at a very young age. She completed eighth grade of education. Bernice married Marcellus R. Dewberry at the age of 17 years old on October 7,1941. They moved to Guthrie, Oklahoma, Logan County and to this union were born eight children: Calvin, Catherine, Charlesetta, Charlene, Carl, Clarence, Cheryl and Cynthia. 

She was a homemaker for many years, her life was one of grace, kindness and enduring strength. BeDe leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all who knew her. With an extraordinary century, experiencing history and change in ways few could imagine, yet through it all she remained a steadfast and loving presence to her family, friends and community. 

As a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great great grandmother and friend, she brought warmth, wisdom and laughter into the lies of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Bernice’s strength of character, her caring heart, and her unwavering father in her loved ones were qualities that defined her. She had remarkable abilities to make everyone feel valued, loved and important, whether through a kind word or a generous act. BeDe’s devotion to her family was unparalleled, and home was always filled with the love and joy of those who gathered there. 

Throughout her 101 years, Bernice had a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures whether it was tending to her garden, baking her favorite desserts or sharing stories of her life. She found joy in the everyday moments and beloved in the power of love, laughter and family. She leaves to cherish her beautiful memories: three daughters, two sons, twenty one grandchildren, forty-eight great grandchildren, and several great-great grandchildren. 

Bernice is preceded in death by her parents, four sisters, one brother, two daughters, two granddaughters, one grandson and one great granddaughter.  Our BeDe will forever be missed. She was truly blessed and highly favored by God for 101 years young. Rest in Peace “Sweet Bede”