Mother Bertha Nichols

Bertha Mae Ross-Nichols was born on November 9, 1932, in Lena, Mississippi, to the union of James Ross and Elnora Morris-Ross, who preceded her in death. She was the second child of eleven children. Bertha accepted Christ at an early age, under the Leadership of Pastor W. Burton of the Harmony Baptist Church. She was very active in her church and a great singer. The first Solo Bertha sang as a child was "If l Just Can Make It In". She loved to sing and sang until her voice started to fail her. In 1948, she met the love of her life, Mr. Bendell Nichols, who preceded her in death. They joined in Holy Matrimony on April 2, 1949, in Forest Mississippi. Two children, Bobby & Janice, were born to this union. The family moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1950, and united with Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church, under the Leadership of Pastor Harvey C. Momon. They served there as faithful members for 25 years. Bertha's Husband was called into the Ministry during the time he served at the Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church. She would later become a First Lady after her husband was elected to Pastor at the Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin until his death in 1989. Bertha served in several positions, and on different boards & committees, while working faithfully with her husband at Evergreen M.B.C., including the Unity District, Minister's Wives, & W.C.B.S.C. She was not only a First Lady, but served as the Head of the Nurses Guild, a Sunday School Teacher, Missionary President, Choir Director, Singer and more. She even drove the Church Van at times. After the death of her Husband, the late Pastor Bendell Nichols, she continued to work faithfully. Her Son, Reverend Bobby L. Nichols became Pastor a few years later. Bertha left Evergreen M.B.C. after her son was called to Pastor in a different state. She then united with Greater Galilee Baptist Church, under the Leadership of Pastor Samuel C. Jones. Bertha served in the Mission Department as Chairperson of the Eunice Circle and Secretary of General Mission. She was also a part of the Mother Board. Bertha always helped where needed. Bertha received her formal education from Leake County High School, in Walnut Grove, Mississippi. She completed her High School Education after moving to Milwaukee, Wisconsin at M.A.T.C. Bertha was a very good student while attending there and had beautiful penmanship. She was employed at the Milwaukee County Hospital for 25 years. She loved taking care of people, and I believe it was her calling. She loved her family, cooking, singing, talking with others, and telling them how good "God Is". Bertha could light up a room by just speaking to someone. She will be missed. Bertha Nichols departed this life on June 8, 2026. Five brothers and three sisters preceded her in death. She leaves to cherish her memory: One son, Pastor Bobby L. Nichols(Patricia) of Nashville, TN; One daughter, Janice Williams(Roy) of Dallas, TX; Four grandchildren, Bobby C. Kennis(Carmelita) of Milwaukee, WI, Leon A. Waddell of Dallas, TX, Larry Wilhoite Jr.(Travonya) of Nashville, TN, and Ashley Baxter of Nashville, TN; One brother, John L. Ross(Joann): One sister, Margaret Echols of Foxworth, MS and a host of Nieces, Nephews, other relatives and friends that loved her dearly.

Mother Bertha Nichols

November 9, 1932 - June 8, 2026