Obituary of Bernice Sanders

Bernice Sanders, born on April 27, 1941 in Brooklyn, NY to the late Alton and Ruth Sanders; the eldest of two daughters.

Bernice was raised and educated in Brooklyn, NY, a graduate from Thomas Jefferson High School.  Post graduation, she became employed as a Seamstress for 3G's Company and retired after twenty years.  After her retirement, Bernice went back to work as a food service worker for Mohawk Valley Community College in upstate New York. 

In 1995, Bernice and her family relocated from Brooklyn to Utica, NY, which became their home for the last twenty-four years. 

Bernice loved shopping, watching golf and tennis on T.V. and cooking (especially baking).  Her favorite pastime was gardening, she always made sure to get her children and grandchildren involved when shopping for new flowers to plant each spring.  Although Bernice was surrounded by a lot of love ones, she formed a unique, loving relationship with each one. Christmas was one of her favorite holidays, she made it a tradition to get all her family involved in decorating for the holidays, especially the Christmas tree.  She also enjoyed Sundays,it was her favorite day to wake up early and cook breakfast and begin preparing dinner for her family.  The abundance of love she shared was always heart felt. 

The home of Bernice was always open to anyone who needed her.  She was not only a mother to her own but opened her home up to many other children in the community (whom she raised for many years).  She enjoyed conversations with her friends and family.  Bernice always extended herself to listen and support others.  She was strong-minded woman that spoke to help and uplift those who needed her guidance. 

On August 30, 2019 Bernice succumbed to her illness. 

Bernice is survived by her children:  Lisa, Leonard, Andre, Ray, Willie, Kyana, Courtney and Carlotta; grandchildren Schrell, Davon, Antawn, Natalie, Nicole, SaiQuan, Tearaini, Andreah, Andrea, Jr., KaDre, Kyree, Karayjah, Anthony, Tenequa, Antwuan, Giavonna, William, Kiara, Aiden, Carter and Cassius; brother-in-law Joseph Rheams; nieces Monique and Michelle Rheams; one-time daughter Antoinette Jones and close friends Cassandra Bradley ans Salimah Rahman and a host of great grandchildren.

Bernice was predeceased by her parents; daughter Linda, grandson Andre and beloved sister Beverly Rheams. 

Bernice would always speak to her loved ones about the beautiful memories they shared, so today we honor her and remind ourselves of those memories that she shared with us.