Bernice Laverne Adkins was born in Albany, Georgia on April 15, 1935.  She was the youngest of five children born to the union of the late Reverend Will Adkins, Sr. and Polly Bryant Adkins.

She was educated in the Dougherty County Public School System, graduating from Monroe High School where she enjoyed a very active and well-rounded school experience.

From a very young age, Bernice was nurtured in the Word of God and taught the importance of living a life of integrity and loving kindness.  As a youth, she accepted Christ as her Savior and began her journey of Christian stewardship at Second Mt. Olive Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Chester Grant.  Over the years, she was a faithful member and devoted herself to unparalleled service until her health declined.  In addition to singing in the church choir, she utilized her melodious soprano voice to minister in song with the late Reverend Arthur Harden and the "Harden Singers."

Bernice was a selfless, altruistic mother who ate not the bread of idleness and always sacrificed her needs for the good of her family.   She was a loyal, dedicated employee of Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Central Supply and retired after rending more than 25 years of service.  She had a quiet strength, never complained, and always looked forward to a better future.

"Mahmee" as she was endearingly called, truly loved her family; especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren who held the key to her heart.  She was full of energy, stayed on the move, and was well organized—everything had its place!  Blessed with supreme culinary skills, Mahmee would prepare extraordinary soulful feasts for family and friends to enjoy.  Her doors were always open and her table was always spread.  She was also known for her "green thumb" and her ability to grow and cultivate beautiful flowers and plants.

On February 10, 2021, Bernice answered the Master's call to eternal rest.  In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by two daughters, Beverly Jackson and LaTonya Mingo; and her siblings, Fannie Fenney, Willie Bell Adkins, Levalace Watkins, and Will Adkins, Jr.

Cherished memories will forever remain with her children, Elder Bernee Williams and Michael Adkins; grandchildren, DeCarlo Adkins, Corey Jackson, Cortrez Jackson, and Dylan Mingo; nine great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; a special niece and nephew, Carolyn W. Marsh and Will Adkins II; son-in-law, William Jackson; two close friends, Hattie Paul and Renita Ellerson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.