Bertha Vanessa Williams' Obituary
Bertha Vanessa Williams was born on April 2, 1958 to the late Joseph and Lizzie
(Rider) Potts in Vicksburg, Mississippi. She departed this life on April 25, 2022,
at her home just weeks after celebrating her 64th birthday. Bertha Vanessa
moved to Lansing, Michigan in 1977 and then relocated to Jackson, Michigan
where she resided until her untimely demise.
She was known throughout the city from her time working for the Jackson
Housing Commission and countless times she extended her hands to help the
people she knew and loved. She accepted Christ at an early age during her years
in Mississippi and was of the Baptist faith.
Bertha had a community presence even while being on Dialysis for 20+ years
and found time even while dealing with her own medical issues to help others in
need. Her favorite pastime was Bingo which she frequently enjoyed at one of
her favorite bingo halls, The Fraternal Order of Eagles. Bertha will be
remembered for her pure heart, willingness to help and motherly wisdom
which made many look at her as a good friend, big sister or even an extended
auntie. That kind of love and encouragement you grow to appreciate and will
surely miss. One thing that is not to be forgotten is her wonderful culinary skills
which had many telling stories; if Bertha was in the kitchen or on the grill, you
knew you were in for a treat.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her three sons, Maurice WilliamsJr. of
South Elgin, Illinois, Joseph Michael Williams of San Antonio, Texas, and Ryan
Anthony Williams of Jackson, Michigan: Three Grandchildren she adored Tahri
Williams, Madison Williams, and Marlee Williams: Her Sister, Dannetta (Colin)
Crasta of Vicksburg, Mississippi: Two Brothers, Joseph (Deborah) Potts of
Vicksburg, Mississippi and Larry Thomas of Canton, Mississippi along with five
nephews, Cedrick (Kim) King, Larry Alexander, Thomas Lewis, Devario Lewis
and Preston Lewis: Two Nieces, Daniele Alexander, Trica Alexander: plus a
special nephew, Nicholas Crasta of Durham, North Carolina Her Uncle, William
Rider of Vicksburg, Mississippi and Aunt, Ida Rider of Albion, Michigan. Bertha
also leaves a host of cousins and friends who will truly miss her awesome spirit
and loving demeanor.
At this time, we are here to not mourn a death but celebrate a life of a person
who would want us all to remember that life is precious and to help all those you
can help and love on the people you love unconditionally.
What’s your fondest memory of Bertha?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bertha?
Share a story where Bertha's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bertha you’ll never forget.
How did Bertha make you smile?