Bertha Mae Webster

Bertha Mae Burns Webster, 91 of Richmond, Virginia, entered eternal rest on Friday, February 6, 2026, at CJW Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia. She was born in Sumter, South Carolina, to the late Frank and Lucille Burns. Bertha was the first of six children born to this union and spent much of her early life helping her mother at home while lovingly caring for her younger siblings.

Mrs. Webster was united in holy matrimony to the late John C. Webster Jr. for over fifty years, and from their loving union, five children were born. She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings Carrie, Frank, Shirley, and Joseph; her devoted husband, John C. Webster Jr., her firstborn child, Johnette Marie Webster, and her son, John C. Webster III.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory one sister, Loucenia Brent (Charles) of Chesterfield, Virginia; three daughters, Regina Hilton (Tyrone) of Ashland, Virginia; Anita Bowman (Samuel) of Hickory, North Carolina, and Francine Surley (Wayne) of the home. She also leaves nine beloved grandchildren: Sonya Griffin (Mitchell) of Chesterfield, Virginia, Clifford Parham of Chesterfield, Virginia, Tyrone R. Hilton of Varina, Virginia, Alexandra James (Steven) of Washington, D.C., Deontay Webster of the home, and Javaris Webster of Chesterfield, VA, Tyrisha Fortune (William) of Ruther Glen, Virginia, Iman Bowman of Washington, D.C., Damari Webster of the home, and Jaliyah Webster of Chesterfield, Virginia. Mrs. Webster was blessed to have six great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. There are also a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives who will cherish her memory.

Additionally, Mrs. Bertha leaves a host of special friends and cherished loved ones whom she lovingly considered her sons and daughters. Among those she embraced as her own were Willie and Nita Whitaker, who cared for her daily and made certain that she had everything she needed. Their devotion to her was a true reflection of the love she had poured into them over the years. Willie and Nita did not simply assist her, they honored her. They stood faithfully by her side, offering comfort, companionship, and unwavering support. Through their kindness, patience, and attentiveness, they ensured that her days were filled with dignity, warmth, and reassurance. The bond they shared was one built on deep mutual love and respect, a testament to the beautiful family she created not only by birth, but by heart.

She shared a special bond with many whose lives were enriched by her love, wisdom, and guidance. With particular affection, she embraced Teresa Baptist, Star Coe, Rev. Shirley Steward, and Estelle (Via) Johnson as her adopted daughters, holding them close to her heart and treating them as family.

Her love for cooking and feeding others was a true reflection of her heart. She delighted in creating meals that brought comfort and joy, and her culinary talents were many, but she was perhaps most renowned for her pound cakes and sweet potato pies, treats that became synonymous with her warmth and care. One did not leave her home without a "to-go plate". Mrs. Webster was a woman whose life spoke love long before her words ever did. She had a remarkable way of making everyone she met feel seen, valued, and cared for, no matter their circumstance. Her home was more than a place to live; it was a sanctuary, a haven of kindness and acceptance. Time and again, she opened her doors to those in need, offering not only shelter but compassion, encouragement, and dignity. Even at 91, her heart remained wide and welcoming, marked by generosity, grace, and an unwavering concern for others. Through her love, her cooking, and her life of service, Ms. Webster left an unforgettable imprint of kindness and warmth. her legacy is one of selfless love, quiet strength, and a life well lived in service to others, a life that nourished both body and soul.

Mrs. Webster was a dedicated and hardworking woman who exemplified commitment and excellence throughout her working life and service to the church. She began her career at Miller's Manufacturing and later retired from Philip Morris USA after more than 30 years of faithful and honorable service. Beyond her professional accomplishments, her greatest devotion was to the Lord and to His church. Mrs. Webster was a faithful member of First Independent Methodist Church for over sixty years, where she served wholeheartedly in many capacities. She was a proud member of the renowned Temple Chorus, a devoted member of the Senior Ladies Ushers Board, and a respected class leader. Above all titles and roles, she will be remembered as a faithful servant who loved God, loved her family, loved her church, and served with humility, consistency, and grace.

In every season of her life, Mrs. Webster carried herself with quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a generous spirit that left a lasting emblem on all who knew her. Whether in her workplace, her church, or within the walls of her home, she demonstrated integrity, compassion, and a heart willing to serve. Her life was a testimony of perseverance, kindness, and steadfast devotion to God. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, faithfulness, and selfless service will continue to inspire her family, church, and community for generations to come.