Proverbs 31:10 reminds us, “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies” (KJV). This Scripture beautifully reflects the life of First Lady Glennise Nevorla Berkley, a devoted servant of God, born December 10, 1956, to the late Dorothy Thompson and Waverly Richard Jr. of Charles City, Virginia.
She attended Charles City County Public Schools and later met the love of her life, Reggie L. Berkley. They were united in holy matrimony on November 14, 1981, and together they built a loving family of twelve children. On April 16, 2000, they were elevated to Pastor and First Lady of St. John Baptist Church in Toano, Virginia.
“First Lady Berkley,” as she was affectionately called, was known for her powerful worship, bold praise, and unwavering commitment to holy living. Her voice carried an anointing that touched many souls. She served faithfully over the Women’s Ministry and continued pressing her way to worship, even as her health declined. She loved deeply, gave generously, and lived with conviction, strength, and joy. Above all, her greatest loves were God and her husband.
She leaves to cherish fond memories her loving husband, Pastor Reggie L. Berkley; twelve devoted children; Deitra Garrett, Anthony Richard, Dana Derr (Omar), Regina Townes (Nekoda), Reginald Berkley (Breanna), Angela Weddington (Blakely), Virginia Berkley, Ebed Berkley, James Berkley, Joseph Berkley, Andrew Berkley, and Omega Berkley; her grandchildren, Zoe, Amirah, Jessie, and Mathias Weddington, Korsche and Elijah Derr, Timara, Raiya, and Nekoda Jr. Townes, and Nehemiah and Aubree Berkley; beloved siblings, Lucia Frazier (Henry), Sandra Richard, Ronnie Thompson, and Keith Thompson (Michelle); her devoted best friend, Mrs. Wateina Hatchett; two special grandchildren, Melina and Cianey Braxton; and a host of family, church members, and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.
First Lady Berkley’s legacy lives on in the seeds of faith, love, and righteousness she planted in the lives of so many.
