WILLELA BERNICE JONES

Willela Bernice Jones was born October 14, 1929, in Gillette, Texas. The sixth child
born to the union of Vernett and Girtha (Clemons) Roberson. At an early age, she accepted the
Lord, Jesus Christ into her life. Later, the family moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, where she
attended Church of God in Christ #2 & Greater Shiloh COGIC and graduated from Solomon Coles
High School. After graduation, she became an in-home health provider.
 

In 1952, she came to San Diego, California, where she met the love of her life, Benjamin Jones.
They were married December 25, 1953. God blessed them with five, loving children. She
attended Greater Jackson Memorial COGIC and worked at Safeway as a cashier. At Greater
Jackson, she was an active member; serving as office secretary, a licensed Missionary and
working with the Hospitality Committee.
 

In 1966, “Bernice” or “Big Mama” and Benjamin relocated to Los Angeles, California. Through
the years, they were members of Azusa COGIC, Starlight COGIC and Crusader Temple COGIC.

She was the Matriarch of our family as well as a divinely gifted administrator and
advisor. Her home was always open to help those in need.
In 2006, her declining health led her back to San Diego to live with her daughter, Sylvia. She
attended Faith Chapel Church of God in Christ (now City of Hope International).
Her sweet spirit was always present, her favorite phrases of praise were, “Hallelujah” and “Higher God!”
When asked how she was feeling, she would reply, “I'm Blessed and highly favored.”
 

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, Vernett and Girtha; her husband, Benjamin; her
son, Vernett; her 8 brothers Carl, Clarence, Culberson, Malcolm, Gilbert, John, Lawrence and
Paul; four grandchildren, Lloyd, Jr., Dwane, Duόn and Jaquetta; and a great grandson, Darnell.
She is survived by her siblings, Doris Hines of San Diego, CA, Bobby Roberson of Texas and
Georgia, Luella Gafford of San Diego, CA, Daniel Roberson of Kansas and Texas; her children,
Christine Donald of Los Angeles, CA, Sylvia Devoe of San Diego, CA, Benjamin Jones, Jr. of Los
Angeles, CA, Gloria Jones of Los Angeles, CA, and son-in-law, Lloyd Devoe, Sr. of San Diego, CA;
9 grandchildren, 12 great grand children, 1 great great grandchild and a host of nieces,
nephews, cousins, God children and friends.

Mom, Big Mama, Auntie and Sister-- we love you!

"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies."
~ Proverbs 31:10

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