Bertha Mae Woods

On March 5, 1945, in the heart of Wilcox County, Alabama, Samuel and Patsy Woods welcomed a strong, radiant soul into the world: Bertha Mae Woods. The fourth of twelve children, Bertha was a classy queen through and through, graced with a resilient spirit and unshakable faith. On September 12, 2024, she departed this life surrounded by the love of her family.

Bertha’s life was a testament to Proverbs 31:25 – “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” A woman of grace and elegance, Bertha faced life’s challenges with a courage that mirrored her faith in God. As a breast cancer survivor, she walked through life with the assurance that her strength came from her trust in the Lord.

In the late 1960s, Bertha made the bold decision to leave her hometown in Alabama and venture to Boston, Massachusetts, where new opportunities awaited her. In Boston, Bertha dedicated many years to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), where her tireless work and outgoing nature left a lasting impression on colleagues and commuters alike.

Bertha was known for her impeccable sense of style and charm. She was a woman who loved to dress well and enjoyed meeting new people, lighting up any room she entered. When she wasn’t working, she found joy in fishing, dancing, and spending time with her beloved family. Her strength as a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend was evident in the way she prioritized family above all else. Those closest to her recall her infectious laughter and the unwavering love she extended to everyone she met.

Bertha Mae Woods began her lifelong walk with the Lord at Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church in Wilcox County, where she accepted Christ at an early age. Her faith in God remained steadfast throughout her life, guiding her decisions and offering comfort in difficult times. She was a woman of unwavering faith, always reminding her loved ones of God’s grace and provision.

Bertha was preceded in death by her loving parents, Samuel Woods and Patsy Woods; her two sons, Michael Woods and Dolan Woods; and her siblings Leon Woods, Icola Burke, Sam Woods Jr., Anna Pearl Woods, Mitchell Lee Woods, Janie Mae Woods, and her grandchild Sean Boyd.

She leaves behind her devoted siblings, Viola Woods, Juanita Miller, Nathaniel Miller (brother-in-law), James Woods, Willie Lee Woods, and Patricia Woods. She also leaves behind her loving grandchildren, Tyreke Garrett, Michelle Salabarria, and great-grandchildren Cohen-Michael, Braelyn, and Ryahsen Boyd. Additionally, Bertha is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom she held dear.

In reflecting on her life, Bertha embodied the essence of Proverbs 31:28 – “Her children arise and call her blessed.” Today, we rise to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who trusted God, uplifted others, and never ceased to offer love and grace. Bertha’s legacy of faith, family, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know and love her.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.