Bernice Eleanor Watts

God, in His infinite wisdom, called home to eternal rest, his beloved daughter, Deaconess Bernice Eleanor Watts on Tuesday, February 28, 2012, at Genesis Eldercare Center, in La Plata, MD.

Bernice was born on September 21, 1913 in Oak Grove, VA (Westmoreland County), to the late Robert and Susie Johnson. Her educational pursuits were achieved through the Westmoreland County School District. While in her youth, Bernice confessed faith in Jesus Christ. She was baptized and joined in fellowship with Little Zion Baptist Church of Oak Grove, VA.

Bernice moved to Washington, D.C., at an early age, where she remained employed with the federal government's General Services Administration until retirement.

Bernice united in holy matrimony with Moses Watts on July 8, 1940. It was during this time that she and Moses took in her niece, Margaret Newman, and raised her as their own. Moses was a founding member of Second Union Baptist Church (D.C.), which Bernice and Moses faithfully attended.

Bernice and Moses moved back to her home in Oak Grove, VA, and she remained there for the next 25 years. She was a devoted member and deaconess of the church, and derived much joy from being The Mother of Little Zion Baptist Church.

Bernice is preceded in death by her husband, Moses and two brothers, Morris and Reginald Johnson.

Bernice will live on through the cherished memories of one son, Raymond Watts Sr. (wife Dorothy) of Indian Head, MD; four grandchildren: Gloria Jett of King George, VA, Illinois Brooks of Waldorf, MD; Merilyn Watts of Capitol Heights, MD, and Raymond Watts Jr. (wife Doris) of Upper Marlboro, MD; eight great grandchildren; twelve great-great grandchildren; two brothers: Linwood Johnson (Bertha L.) of Montross, VA and Robert Johnson of Upper Marlboro, MD; three special nieces: Margaret Newman, Juanita Newman and Annie Mae Jackson; and a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.




Funeral Home:
Cedell Brooks Funeral Home
25662 A.P. Hill Blvd
Port Royal, VA
US 22535