Bertha Mae Everett

Bertha Mae Everett, 98, affectionately known as Sis to her siblings, Mema to her grandchildren, Big Grandma to her great-grandchildren, Mother Everett to her spiritual family. and "Hollywood" to everyone who knew her, passed peacefully into eternal rest on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

Born on April 2, 1927, in Franklin, Virginia, to the late James and Alberta Saunders, Bertha Mae lived a remarkable life marked by grace, style, deep faith, and an unquenchable love for family - both natural and spiritual.

She graduated from Hayden High School and went on to complete cosmetology school in Norfolk, Virginia. Her talent as a hairstylist never faded; ask any of her children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren, and they'll smile (and perhaps wince a little) at memories of the famous "Hot Comb" - that essential tool of her trade that left hair perfectly pressed and spirits lifted.

From hair to makeup, dresses, and shoes, she truly earned her nickname "Hollywood" - always elegant, always glamorous, turning heads wherever she went. She embodied timeless style and poise, even in her later years.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. She began at First Baptist Church in Franklin, Virginia, where she served faithfully as an Usher for many years. She continued her ministry as an Usher at Love, Joy and Peace Christian Tabernacle, earning the revered title of Mother of the Church. At Mt. Gilead FGIM, she served as a Greeter and remained the beloved Mother Everett until her passing - a spiritual mother whose presence brought comfort, wisdom, and love to all.

A world traveler who never let grass grow under her feet, Bertha Mae journeyed across the country and beyond, always eager for the next adventure.

But above all, she was devoted to family. She and her beloved husband, John J. Everett, shared over 50 years of marriage before his passing in 1997; she never remarried, carrying his love with her always.

She was preceded in death by two children, Gwendolyn C. hayes and John A. Everett, as well as brothers, James Saunders, George Saunders, Willie Saunders, and sister Cornelia Minor.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory and carry on her legacy;
*Her youngest daughter, Angela L. Bailey (Gary)
*Thress sisters: Ernestine Kennedy, Margaret Hardy, and Mary Harris
*Grandsons: Cortina Cheatham, Lakesha Cheatham, Tanika Russell (Bryan), Christina Bailey
*21 great-grandchildren, 25 great-great-grandchildren,, and 1 great-great-great grandchild
Spiritual daughter, Necole Freeman, spiritual friends, Elzena Lynch and Lucy Lambert
*A multitude of friends, relatives, and spiritual family who were blessed by her warmth.

Her home was a gathering place where love overflowed, generations came together, and stories were shared. She adored her family fiercely, and they adored her right back. She created countless beautiful memories, surrounded by the love of many generations.

Though our hearts are heavy with her absence, we find comfort in knowing that a love as deep, elegant, and faithful as Bertha Mae's never truly fades - it lives on in every perfectly styled curl, every warm embrace, every act of kindness, and every prayer whispered in her honor.

Rest in peace, dear Mother Everett, Mema, Big Grandma, Sis, and Hollywood. You were our shining anchor, and our forever home. You will be loved and remembered always.