I remember a time when I was a kid and my cousins and I were crossing the street, coming back from children's church in the fellowship hall after service at Holy Temple. She was sitting in the car with Uncle Jessie, I think he was heading to another church. Before she got out of the car they started kissing and my cousins and I started saying "eeeewwwwwww!". She heard us and made a remark like " one day you will thank God that you have someone to kiss like that!"

My mom and I were reflecting on the many many many times that Aunt Bernardette had been there to support and cheer us on. She made it a point to be present and available and always had a kind word to share. From the moment my father died when I was 9 years old until this last October when I presented my work at a national conference, she was there. She has always made me feel like I could do anything and she ALWAYS  smiled when she said my name. I would try to tell her how fabulous she was and she would say "its Jesus." I remember the love she always showed.

One memory I have is when I played football for the Detroit Police Athletic League (Westside Pirates). We were playing the Cowboys. I played strong safety but I also returned kicks.  On the 2nd return of the game an opposing player hit me....and hard!  I literally saw stars....but when I looked up I also saw momma!  She had ran onto the field!!!  I know she loved me but when I tell you I did not live that down for the rest of the season!!!!  Just too funny when I think about it!!!!