Mrs. Bernice Bell Gladden

Bernice Bell Gladden was born a blessing to the late Hersie and Alberta Hollins on October 6, 1937, in Savage, Mississippi. She entered into eternal rest on Sunday, September 27, 2015, in Burtonsville, Maryland. The family moved from Mississippi to Cleveland, Ohio when she was a little girl. Bernice was educated in the Cleveland public school system. On November 11, 1960, she was united in marriage to her childhood friend the late George Henry Bell, Jr. Together they raised four beautiful children. Bernice accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of Temple Baptist Church for as long as she resided in Cleveland. In 1986, Bernice married the late William “Bill” Andrew Gladden; Bernice and Bill loved to travel and particularly enjoyed attending the Kentucky Derby. Bill preceded her in death and after his passing, Bernice moved to Virginia with her daughter. She later moved to Maryland where she became an active member of Bethel Baptist Church in Laurel, Maryland. Bernice spent many of her days helping others. Whether volunteering at the Salvation Army or feeding the hungry, she was always blessing to others. She and her friends often visited nursing homes where they sang gospel songs and offered prayers of comfort to the residents. Consistent with her retail jobs, her most favorite pastime was shopping. Bernice had an eye for quality and could find almost anything you could want or need at rock bottom prices. She was very generous, shopping not for herself but to provide for others. Bernice was affectionately known by many names, including Cookie, Ma Bell, G Ma and Buzz. She was Grandma to many and had an impenetrable relationship with the Lord. Bernice was the epitome of the virtuous woman. She was more precious than rubies and greatly enriched every life that she touched. Bernice was a strong and dignified woman who spoke kind and wise words even in the midst of her illness. Her family was her pride and joy. She is survived by her big sister, Etonure “Toni” Wilson White, and leaves to cherish fond and loving memories, her children, Donald of Germany, Daryl and Michael of Cleveland, and Michelle of Maryland; ten grandchildren, six great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. God sent someone for everybody. God sent our Mother for us and we should be grateful for her and remember her love always. Humbly submitted, Her Loving Children Donald, Daryl, Michael, and Michelle Bell

Mrs. Bernice Bell Gladden

October 6, 1937 - September 27, 2015