A woman of deep faith, a heart of pure gold and a soul of peace was released from her earthly body December 11, 2023. Bertha Lee Love Bland earned her wings and was called to her spiritual home following a brief illness.
Bertha was born on December 30, 1931, in Crewe, Virginia. She was educated at Watson School in Nottoway County, Virginia and was an advocate of education for her children. Bertha fell in love and married Eddie Bland, Sr., and from their union they shared five children – all loving and deeply devoted – Doris B. Farrar (Warren, Sr.,); Jacqueline D. Wells (Garland); Ricky L. Bland (Marilyn) and Sandra B. Miller (Thomas). Eddie, Jr., preceded his parents in death.
Bertha was a long-time employee and retired from Crewe Garment Company after 31-years of service. Prior to Crewe Garment Company, she was a dedicated employee, working as a cook at the Crewe YMCA.
At a very early age, Bertha joined Union Baptist Church in Crewe and attended as a faithful member and dedicated servant until her recent illness. She was dedicated as a deaconess and was an active member of the church’s hospitality committee. One of her most treasured pastimes was reading her Bible.
All of Bertha’s cooking was loved by her family and friends, who she enjoyed hosting for big and small celebrations. Those around her dining table would often enjoy the harvests from her vegetable garden. If you needed a new zipper or a dress made, Bertha was ready to help.
If you knew Bertha, you know that she loved soap operas – especially “Young & The Restless.” She was often the source of a good joke and loved to tell you about the bargains she found during her shopping trips.
Bertha’s siblings include her loving and devoted brother, William Love and loving and devoted sister-in-law, Lillie Mae. Preceding her in death were her brothers - Tony Love (Annette); Lawrence Love (Goldie) and her sister Lucille Fuller (George). Six half siblings preceded her in death.
Of her many joys, her greatest was her family. Bertha is survived by five children, nine grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. One granddaughter, Jacqueline Ward, preceded her in death.
Viewing Friday, December 15, 2023 from 12 to 7PM
Funeral Service Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 12:00PM at Union Baptist Church, 1040 Rocky Ford Rd., Crewe, VA 23930.
Interment Bland Famiily Cemetery
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Previous Events
Visitation
15
Dec
504 East Street
Blackstone, VA 23824
Service
16
Dec
1040 Rocky Ford Road
Crewe, VA 23930
Interment: Bland Family Cemetery, Crewe, VA