Bertha Fuqua

Bertha Holmes Fuqua, was born on February 13, 1935, in Florence, Alabama to Clara Dollerson and John Willis Holmes, she was raied surrounded by her brother.

Bertha received her education in the Lauderdale County Public School System in Florence, Alabama. She possessed a strong work ethic that was evident throughout her career. As a dedicated employee at the Sheraton Hotel and Conference Center, Bertha's commitment to her role did not go unnoticed. In recognition of her exceptional work, she was nominated Employee of the Month in June 2003.

Outside of her professional life, Bertha was an active member of the Eastern Star Rahab Grand Court Heroines of Jericho, P.H.A. in the state of South Carolina. Her involvement in the organization led her to serve as the G. Chaplain-Chairman and receive numerous awards for her outstanding service. Notably, she was awarded Eastern Star of the Year on June 18th, 1988 and received an Eastern Star award for Outstanding World Class Service Rendered on April 19th, 2002. Bertha's dedication to her community extended beyond these accolades as well. On Mother's Day, May 11th, 2014 she was honored with a "Mother's Love" plaque presented by Pastor Filbert Martin of Mobile Heights Baptist Church.

Bertha embraced various hobbies and interests throughout her life. She found joy in fishing and camping with her late husband and cherished moments spent with their grandchildren, other family members, and friends. One could often find Bertha within the walls of her church where she happily contributed her time and energy.

Her proudest accomplishments always revolved around family. Bertha lovingly cooked each of her children's favorite meals when they returned home, ensuring that family meals were a true blessing. She delighted in traveling to her children's homes, engaging in board games, and solving puzzles with them. Christmas held a special place in Bertha's heart as she reveled in decorating every room of her house. Above all, she treasured the time spent with her family, especially during the holidays.

Bertha had a green thumb and took great pleasure in outdoor gardening. Her yard was a sight to behold, filled with vibrant blooms that earned admiration from neighbors. Inside her home, her flowers thrived just as beautifully. Additionally, Bertha possessed quilting skills that she shared with loved ones. Every child and most of her grandchildren possess one of her homemade quilts.

Bertha is preceded in death by her loving husband SSgt Houston Tom Fuqua, Sr., her mother Clara Dollerson, her father John Willis Holmes, three sons Clement Dollerson, David Dollerson, and Odell Dollerson, two brothers Theodore Noel and Samuel Foster, sister Laura Mae Noel Fuqua.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories within the family she built. Surviving family members include her children Houston Fuqua Jr. (Takisha), John Fuqua (Marsha), Jessie Dollerson (Tommie), Rev. Katherine Farley (Doug), Rev. Mary Barbee (Milton), Sherry Parker (Bobby), Rev. Clarissa Kusi, Annie Dollerson, Martha Vaughn, and godchildren Rose and Everett McCarty. Also mourning her loss are brother-in-law Leroy Fuqua (Georgia), sister-in-law Bertha Lee Brown, brother Washis Noel, nephew June Noel both from Chicago Illinois; thirty-five grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Bertha Fuqua will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her community, and her profession. Her kindness, warmth, and loving spirit touched the lives of those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world. She will be deeply missed but forever treasured in our hearts. May she rest in eternal peace.