Bernice Opal Albritton, the beloved only child of Claude Albritton and Minnie Worsley, was born on December 25, 1935, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. She later came to call Cleveland, Ohio, her home, where she graduated from St. Peter’s High School, Class of 1954. Three years later, in 1957, Bernice married William Golphin, and together they welcomed five children.

As the years unfolded, Bernice devoted herself not only to the family she cherished, but also to a career in retail, where her warm personality and caring nature allowed her to connect easily with those around her. She spent many years as a sales associate at Higbee’s, which later became Dillard’s, and after retiring, she began working part-time at Macy’s.

Beyond her career, Bernice’s love for the Lord was evident in the life she lived, the faith she carried, and the many ways she served others. Sister Bernice worshiped under the leadership of Reverend Gigi Butler, and following her passing, she joined the Church of God of Cleveland, where she remained a member until the Lord called her home. 

Sister Bernice faithfully served as President of the Senior Ministry, was a member of the Usher Board, and assisted with Vacation Bible School. She was also actively involved in the Food Ministry, Shared Ministry, and Youth Ministry.

Her spirit of service extended beyond the walls of the church and into her community. Bernice participated in senior programming at St. Martin De Porres, where she was also a valued volunteer. She embraced an active life, enjoying travel and her almost-daily walks, while also finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved watching Westerns, savoring a good cup of coffee, playing Bid Whist, baking, and shopping. Above all, Bernice found her greatest joy in the people she loved. Whether celebrating life’s special moments or simply spending time together, she valued the love, laughter, and fellowship of family and friends.

On Friday, September 4, 2026, angels ascended to usher Bernice into her heavenly home. With a heart rooted in faith and a life well lived, she was ready to answer the Lord’s call and enter into eternal rest. 

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Joseph. 

Those left to cherish her memories are her son, Anthony Golphin (Patricia); her daughters, Andrea Gary (Ronnie), Angela Jelks (Isaac), and Annise Golphin; her grandchildren, Antwan, Jasmine, Temica, Adrian, Ricardo, Ayesha, Isaac IV, Angelina, Alliyah, Allisa, Janae, Jayleen, Rionna, and Raynesha; twenty-two great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; her adopted sister, Susie Beasley; and a host of other relatives and friends who will miss her dearly. 

Those who knew Bernice will remember her beautiful spirit, her faithful dedication to the Lord, and the kindness and warmth she brought into the lives of others. Though her passing leaves a profound emptiness, her family finds comfort in knowing that the love she gave, the wisdom she shared, and the legacy she built will live on for generations. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.