“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep for thou, Lord only makest me dwell in safety” – Psalm 4:8

MURFREESBORO, NC – On the evening of Sunday, July 21, 2019, God’s Heavenly Angels escorted Bernice Virginia Lassiter Holley from labor to reward into the everlasting arms of her Savior.

Bernice, a long-time resident of Murfreesboro, North Carolina, was a much loved and respected member of the community. She spent much of her life working in manufacturing and in later years as a home care aide. Bernice was known to be energetic, fun-loving, and enjoyed fellowship with family and friends. She never met a stranger.

She was a faithful servant and readily attended church services. Bernice was formerly a member of Second Baptist Creeksville Church for many years, where she was a member of the choir, and later joined Nebo Missionary Baptist Church and remained a member until her death.

Bernice was born in Ivor (Southampton Co.), Virginia on January 17, 1941 to the late George Washington Lassiter and Willie Mae Artis Lassiter. She grew up with seven siblings on a farm and was educated in Northampton County Public Schools. Bernice was married to George W. Holley and to this union six children were born. In 1985, she courageously and selflessly took on raising her two granddaughters.

Bernice is survived by her children: John Junior Holley of the home; Patricia Holley-Johnson, and Deborah Holley-Archer (David), both of Durham, NC; grandchildren she raised: LaKeshia M. Holley Neal (Elvin) of Raleigh, NC and Bridgette Shanta Holley of Wake Forest, NC, as well as a many loving grandchildren and great grandchildren. Also surviving are siblings: Joe Louis Lassiter (Mary), Bettie Jean Dukes (Arthur), Barbara Joyce Vaughan, and Thomasene Holley, all of Murfreesboro, NC, and Geraldine Eley of Charlotte, NC; and aunt Essie Mae Vaughan of Murfreesboro.

She is predeceased by children: Carolyn Holley Deloatch, Brenda Holley, and Bernice Holley; parents: George and Willie Mae Lassiter; and siblings: Elsie Mae Harris and Raymond Lassiter; grandparents, Eli and Annie Artis, and mother-in-law, Elizabeth Lillie Mae Porter Holley.

She was known and will be remembered for her smile that lighted up a room, her attitude that enabled her to have a good time anywhere, and her one-of-a-kind laugh. She enjoyed cooking, dressing up, having yard sales, dancing, and serving others in the community.

Bernice will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Her legacy of kindness, mercy, and giving will live on forever. To God be the glory for her life and works!

A funeral service is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2019 at Nebo Missionary Baptist Church in Murfreesboro, NC.