Bernice Virginia Goode

Bernice Virginia Gregory Goode, passed away on August 30, 2023, at the golden age of 89. She suffered medical issues that left her bed ridden in her later years. She ultimately slipped from the bonds of the physical body and went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Bernice was born in Norfolk, Virginia on October 27, 1933, the daughter of John Gregory and Lillian Bernice Davis. She had 3 sisters, Helena Davis, Alice White (Gregory), and is survived by Johnnie Mae Elizabeth Gregory. She also had numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Bernice grew up in Norfolk, Virginia where she attended Lott-Carey Elementary School, and Booker T. Washington High School. Her Sundays were spent at St. John’s AME Church where she was baptized and received spiritual inspiration. She was fortified by her faith throughout the rest of her life.

As a young teen, she always seemed to be leading younger kids around the neighborhood, perhaps a precursor to her future as the mother of a large family.

On December 2, 1952, Bernice married Melvin Alexander Goode, a union that continued until her passing. To them were born 9 children, Melvin A. Goode Jr. (wife Yvonne), Cynthia Strickland (husband Louis), Frederick Goode (wife Mary), Jacob Goode, Valerie Goode, Denise Goode, Steven Goode (wife Tanya), Timothy Goode Sr., and Nanette Rainey (Goode).

She also leaves to cherish her memory are 20 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Bernice was an active-duty military spouse and lived at several duty stations in California while raising her family. After 20 years, her husband retired from the United States Air Force. They purchased a home in Sacramento California, allowing the family to set deeper roots and establish lasting friendships throughout the community.

Bernice loved cooking for her family. Among a few of her specialties were biscuits, homemade apple jacks, and fried chicken. She managed her household by running a “tight ship” of teaching her children to complete their cleaning chores to high standards. With the same lessons being passed on by her children to their families.

As many can imagine, taking care of such a large household got tiresome at times. Bernice would lock her bedroom door and take a timeout to enjoy bubble baths or watching her “stories” .... her name for soap operas. 

Bernice was also an avid sports fan. She enjoyed watching her children play school athletic games and cheering for her beloved San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Lakers. Among the children at home were several pets. One of her favorites was the family dog, Pee Wee.