Bernice Viola Whitsett

Celebration of Life and Legacy of Bernice Viola Whitsett Bernice Viola Coles Whitsett, born on October 7, 1940, in Hopewell, Virginia, peacefully passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025, in Decatur, Georgia, after a short illness. She was the youngest of five children born to the late Rufus Dennis Coles and Florence Briggs Coles. Preceding her in death were all her siblings: Theodore Franklin Coles, Thelma Coles Lee, Juanita Coles Chambers, and Margaret Ree Coles Dennis, and a host of cousins. Bernice accepted Christ at an early age. Relocating to Georgia, she became a member of Greenforest Community Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. George O. McCalep Jr. Bernice was a member of the Keenagers and was a part of her daughter's PraiseMoves class. Bernice was married to Richard Manual Whitsett in 1965. They had one daughter, Revenda Lynn Bannerman. Bernice graduated from Carter G. Woodson High School in Hopewell, VA. After moving to Washington, D.C., she was a dedicated and hardworking woman who devoted over a decade to the United States Post Office. Bernice managed several convenience stores, where she became a familiar and kind presence in her community. She was known for her generosity, warmth, and unwavering spirit. She found joy in reading and valued family, faith, and friendship above all else. Bernice leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted daughter, Revenda Lynn Bannerman, and her beloved grandson, Harrison Bannerman Jr.(Mya Dion); nieces, Wanda Lee Jiggetts, Karen D. Maynard (Jerry), Karen Ausby; nephews, Vincent A. Lee, Jr., John J. Dennis, Jr. (Jewel), Rufus Coles (Maria), Rodney E. Coles, Sr. (Joan) and David E. Coles Sr.; and many grand and great-grand nieces and nephews. Her life will be celebrated on Saturday, June 14, 2025 @ 11:00 AM EST located at Greenforest Community Baptist Church. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported and cherished Bernice throughout her life. She will forever be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the deep love she shared with her family and friends. "Church, Family, Friends” the three words that best sum up Bernice’s life and legacy. The link for the “LIVE Streaming” at Greenforest. This link can be shared with family and friends: https://bit.ly/BerniceViolaWhitsett. Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, 4347 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, Georgia 30034.

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Bernice Viola Whitsett

October 7, 1940 - May 18, 2025