Bertha L. Coleman

Bertha Lou Williams-Coleman was the third of five children born to the union of James and Lillian Williams on July 4, 1943, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Both parents preceded her in death. In addition to her four sisters, she was blessed to have two other sisters. All of whom were a joy and blessing in her life. They were her best friends. In 1944, the family moved to Los Angeles, California where she received her education. In 1973, she graduated from Los Angeles Southwest College where she received her Registered Nurse Degree and later she received her Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Redlands. She worked at the American Red Cross Blood Services for nineteen years. Additionally, her most rewarding professional experiences included working with HIV/AIDS patients and the senior population. Bertha was married and divorced from Robert Coleman in her early adult life. One of Bertha's greatest joys in her life was in 1968, when her son Randolph was born. Bertha and his father, Norman Jackson, were proud and devoted parents. They unconditionally supported and loved their son. In 1943, Bertha was baptized as an infant in the Methodist Church. At the age of thirteen, she renewed her faith in Christ and developed a deep personal relationship with God. Gospel music has always held a special place in Bertha's heart. Her favorite song being, He Looked Beyond My Fault. The following lyrics were of a special blessing to her: "Amazing grace shall always be my song of praise. For it was grace that brought my liberty. I do not know just why he came to love me so. He looked beyond my faults and saw all my needs."Her passions included crocheting, reading, music, and travel. In an atmosphere of peace, she transitioned to glory on October 4, 2023, with her son, Randolph, holding one hand and Randolph's partner, Christopher Wade Adams, holding the other. She is survived by her son Randolph Meredyth-Drake (Jackson), sisters Susan Jernigan, Juanita Pope (Wallace), and Christine Spooner. Her sisters, Edna Faye Rider, Elizabeth Ann Seay, and Jamesetta Adams preceded her in death. She leaves a God-daughter, Patricia White, a God-daughter, Addie Jervon O'Veal, a host of first, second, and third cousins, nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and many friends. Bertha touched many lives through her many acts of kindness and support. May the works that she has done speak for her.