Bernice (Givens) Burris

Obituary Bernice Burris, 94, passed away on March 29th 2020 at her home in Kansas City Mo. She was born October 2nd, 1925 in Kansas City Missouri to Baxter Givens and Mettie Hinds. Bernice grew up in Kansas City Missouri, she attended the public schools,attending R.T. Cole and Lincoln High. Her quick wit and charm spread good tidings and joy to all she came in contact with her. A bright spirit in hard times, she was always positive and put her troubles into her work as she always mentioned. Bernice always spoke of independence and accountability. She lived by the principle “Your best helping hand is at the end of your own wrist” which is a philosophy she passed on to her loved ones. After high school she went to work in the Air Craft Production plants to build planes for our brave heroes fighting in World War II. After the Allied victory she went to work in private homes where her nurturing and hospitality skills rose to prominence and she never lacked for steady employment. Many of her clients began to treat her as one of their own family members and later on even her actual family. Bernice and Ossie married 1955 in Kansas City Missouri. They were happily married for 65 years. They quoted that they never had an argument their entire marriage. They loved each other dearly and as time went on the closer they became. Ossie passed on October 18, 2019 and every day thereafter she spoke highly of the life they shared and the family they created. Bernice enjoyed telling stories and sharing life’s wisdom. She loved to cook, and spread that love to her sons and grandchildren. She said that she learned to best survive life by making a joke of her problems and to not hold grudges. She was a kind and forgiving soul. Bernice is survived by her sons and daughters Ossie Burris Jr. Cheryl Goodwin-Burris (Wife) and Leslie Lane Burris and Lynn “Mikki” Beard (Daughter at Heart) her God-Daughter and Niece Brenda Johnson-Willis; her grandchildren, Lane LeDale Burris and Ericka Ann Smock (Granddaughter in Law to Be) Cherice Bernice Goodwin-Burris and Charles Everett Goodwin and Stephanie Johnson. She is also survived by her extended family who loved her dearly. The Family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude To St Marks Baptist Church whom has been a friend to the family for years but a true blessing in the passing of our family's Matriarch and to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapels for their efforts and comfort in our time of need. Graveside Service will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, April 14, 2020 at Leavenworth National Cemetery. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bernice (Givens) Burris, please visit our floral store. Read More

Bernice (Givens) Burris

October 2, 1925 - March 29, 2020