While in most households, the birth of a ninth child might be met with hesitation; this was not the case in the home of the late Rev. Harry and Gertie Crump. On Mother’s Day, May 12, 1935, their hearts overflowed with joy at the arrival of their daughter, Gertie Bernice—lovingly called “Tea” by family, “Bernice” by friends, and later “Grandma” by those who lovingly cared for her.
Raised in a home full of faith and affection, Bernice was baptized at Liberty Baptist Church and educated in the Christian tradition that would become the cornerstone of her life. Her childhood was filled with happiness, nurtured not only by her devoted parents but also by her older siblings: sisters Juanita, Thelma (“Coots”), Julia, Mabel (“Boots”), and Viola (“Sis”), and brothers Cecil, Alfred, and Oliver (“Bro”).
Bernice graduated from Ruthville High School and Smithdeal Massey Business College. It was during high school that she met the love of her life, Frank Whiting. While Frank served in the military, Bernice worked at Fort Eustis and prepared to build a life with him upon his return. They were married on November 29, 1960, at Liberty Baptist Church, and began their life together in the home Frank built with his own hands.
Though they were unable to have children of their own, their faith never wavered. In 1967, they joyfully adopted their son, Michael Frank Whiting. When Michael was called home to be with the Lord in 1989, Bernice’s heart broke, but her spirit endured. She continued to pour love into her extended family, helping to raise her nieces and nephews with the same grace and strength.
Later in life, she found renewed joy in Jade and Jill Payne, who affectionately called her “Nana.”
Bernice and Frank shared a passion for travel and shopping. She never missed a good sale, and Frank was always her patient chauffeur. From cruises to a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Europe—despite her fear of flying—they shared countless adventures and memories.
When her health declined, she was lovingly cared for by Marilyn Bassett and later the compassionate staff at Claire Bridge of Brookdale, Williamsburg Va. Their devotion was a blessing beyond measure, and the family is forever grateful for the love and care given to their beloved Aunt Tea.
Bernice is survived by sisters-in-law Thelma Crump, Lillian Crump, and Rachel (Percy) Randolph; brother-in-law Joseph “Teddy” Whiting; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who cherished her dearly.
She is reunited in eternal peace with her beloved Frank, son Mike, her parents Harry and Gertie along with her many cherished siblings: brothers Cecil, Alfred (Louise), Oliver, Sidney (Scotty), and Herbert Daniel; and sisters Juanita (Harmon) White, Thelma (John) White, Julia (James) Banks, Mable (Cephas) Cotman, Viola (Herbert) Armstead, Doris Parker, Joan, and Audrey May.
Hers was a life well lived—full of joy, faith, and unwavering love.
Thank you, Uncle Frank for the honor and privilege of caring for our beloved…Aunt Tea
Janis and Saundra.
To God be the Glory!!
