Bertine Williams

Bertine Harris Williams, 84, of Wilson, died August 6, 2020.

Married to the love of her life, Cecil Sr., for 67 years, Mrs. Williams dearly loved her family. She instilled in them the importance of a strong work ethic, determination, and trusting in the Lord. Her words of wisdom and advice will be sorely missed.

A very selfless lady, she always put others before herself. Her desire was to see that all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren take advantage of education and seek opportunities to further their career goals. Words like "quitting" and "can't" were not part of who she was nor what she taught. She was her family's strongest supporter and advocate, and she lived her Christian life by example.

A true pioneer for future generations of women in agriculture, she co-owned Rainbow Farms, Ltd. with her husband, Cecil Sr..  During that time, they grew sweet potatoes, cucumbers, and tobacco; however, tobacco was her greatest enjoyment.  She loved talking "farming" and reminiscing about the good old farming days.

After retiring from farming, she provided childcare for many working parents. They quickly became her extended family. One of her greatest joys was learning about their activities and high school graduations.  Mrs. Williams never met a stranger and truly loved talking to people. She was the family's social butterfly. She also loved her church, New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, and her Sunday School class. Always concerned for others, she was on the church's benevolence committee where she helped cook and serve meals to families in their times of need. She served as New Hope Elementary School's PTA co-chair with Cecil Sr. when their children were younger. Additionally, she was also involved in the Silver Lake Fire Department Women's Auxiliary.

She is survived by her husband, Cecil T. Williams, Sr.; daughters, Sandra Pope (Jim) of Elm City and Cynthia Williams of Rocky Mount; sons, Cecil T. Williams, Jr. (Helen) of Elm City and David Williams (Linda) of Rocky Mount; grandchildren, Cecil T. Williams III (Kelly), Mark Williams (Allison), Kelly Reason (Josh), Kasey Keel (Taylor); great-grandchildren Cecil T. Williams IV, Annabel Williams, Morgan Williams, Maxton Williams, Sadie Reason; sister, Gladys Williams (James) of Wilson.

Mrs. Williams was predeceased by her parents, Lonnie and Gladys Sledge Harris; step-mother, Lessie Morgan Hinton Harris, who raised her; an infant daughter; step-sister, Marie Conway; step-brothers, Elvin Hinton and Marvin Hinton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 5142 NC Hwy 58 N, Wilson, NC 27896.

Due to COVID19 concerns, a private service will be held for the family.