Bernice Johnson Martin was born on April 3, 1920, in Wilmar, Arkansas, to the late Oliver and Susana James Johnson. She was blessed with a long and meaningful life filled with family, hard work, faith, and cherished relationships.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Ollie Mae Johnson; and two brothers, Robert Lee Johnson and J. D. Johnson.
She received her education at Bradley County Training School in Warren, Arkansas. As a young woman, Bernice entered the workforce and was employed by the Warren Telephone Company, where she faithfully worked for 15 years.
Later in life, Bernice relocated to Rockford, Illinois, where she married Charles Martin and began a new chapter in her life’s journey. While living in Rockford, she was employed by Amerock Corporation for 19 years. After many years of dedicated service, Bernice retired in 1982.
Following her retirement, Bernice returned home to Warren, Arkansas. She became a member of the Kingdom Hall of Warren, where she remained a faithful member for the remainder of her life.
Bernice’s life spanned more than a century, and through those many years, she witnessed generations grow, families change, and the world transform around her. Yet the love and memories she shared with those closest to her remain an enduring part of her legacy.
She leaves to cherish her precious memory two stepchildren, Charles “Chuckie Boy” Martin and Ronie Martin of Rockford, Illinois; five nieces, T. Ann (James) Jackson of Plano, Texas, Mauretania Tia Hooper of Warren, Arkansas, Gail M. Freeman of New Caney, Texas, and Rhonda D. Johnson and Johanna M. Johnson, both of Seattle, Washington; and one nephew, Presiding Elder James R. (Jeanette) Hooper of Warren, Arkansas.
She also leaves to cherish her memory one great-niece, Yolanda (Vernon) Smith of Monticello, Arkansas; one great-nephew, Curtis R. Hooper of Monticello, Arkansas; her godson, Nazaire Minton, and goddaughter, Deborah Minton, both of Warren, Arkansas; along with a host of other relatives, extended family members, and dear friends.
Though Bernice’s earthly journey has come to a close, the many years she shared with her family and loved ones have created a lifetime of memories. Her story will continue to live on through the generations who knew her, loved her, and were blessed to be a part of her remarkable journey.
A life well lived; a journey well-traveled; a legacy that will not be forgotten.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Frazer’s Chapel with Steve Mann officiating. Burial will be in Warren-Union Cemetery by Frazer’s Funeral Home.
Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. until service time at Frazer’s Chapel.
