Bernice Pauline Downes Pitts,  a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, peacefully passed away on April 19, 2025,  at the age of 92. Born in Dover, Delaware on May 28, 1932, Bernice was a beacon of warmth and generosity, known for her willingness to help others, bake/cook for family, and her calming presence.

She dedicated her life to her family, always willing to listen and offer advice or a gentle hug. Bernice had a deep love for church and her grandchildren. She found joy in gardening and watching mysteries, and doing word search puzzles.

She was married to Thomas Pitts, Sr. on March 4, 1957 in England and they were blessed with three children, Gloria, Lynnette, and Thomas, Jr.

Bernice is survived by her children, Gloria (Darryl), Lynnette, and Thomas, Jr.; seven grandchildren, Telano (Jessica), Rashaad, Kyle, Torrie (Taevon), Farisma, Kiara (Marcus), and Kaylen; thirteen great-grandchildren, D'Andre, Kamren, Yalijah, Isabel, Jamarian, Marcos, Narianna , Talajah, Taelin, Kyle, Jr., Tave, Makenze, Trevon, Grayson, Javonte; her nephew, Lawrence (Margaret); sisters-in-law, Florence (Harry) Downes, Jeanette (Earl) Wells and Vernell (Willie Joe) Pitts; brother-in-law, Robert (Sandra) Pitts. additional family members, Danny Gray, Joe Igancio, Lisa Pitts, Franklin Fogle, Jr., Lafayette Cook, Delmar Polite; and a host of numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends; she had a special place in her heart for the following: Cheryl Welch, Colleen Martin, Sister McGhee, Elder Ralph and Donna Miller, Sister Minnie, Ms. Arzaia Thomas and Nicole Rush.

Funeral services will be held at 12noon Monday, April 28, 2025 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel with Evangelist Marie McGhee officiating. Entombment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens.  The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12noon on Monday at the Chapel.