Bernice Gaines

Bernice Gaines, born on June 11th, 1934, in Richland, Georgia slipped away peacefully and entered into eternal rest on June 24th, 2025. At the time of her passing, Bernice was residing in Toms River, New Jersey, but Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is where she built a life and called home.

Bernice was a beloved daughter of the late Willie and Edna Gaines. She grew up to be a strong, independent woman who lived a life full of structure, purpose, and grace. Family meant everything to Bernice. While Donald Smith was serving in the military, their paths crossed—and from that union came seven children: six daughters and one son. One daughter, Cheryl, preceded her in death.

Bernice had a heart full of love and hands always ready to help! Whether she was offering a word of wisdom, a loving embrace, or a warm meal, she made those around her feel cared for and seen. She poured herself into her role as a mother, teaching her children to stick together and remain strong through life’s ups and downs. Her favorite words of encouragement were simple yet powerful: “If you want something in life, you must work for it.”

She loved working with children and did so until she physically couldn’t anymore—and even then, she never stopped encouraging the children she met. Bernice’s spirit was nurturing and kind. You couldn’t leave her presence without feeling better, stronger, and more hopeful. A devoted member of New Hope Baptist Church in Braddock, PA, under the leadership of Reverend Jones, Bernice found great joy in singing with the choir. Her favorite song, “One More Sunny Day” by Leontine Dupree, perfectly captured her heart’s posture—always looking toward the light! She often reminded her children, “No matter what you go through, always remember—God is in control.” It wasn’t just something she said—it was how she lived. Her calm strength, her belief in God’s sovereignty, and her love for her family shaped generations.

Bernice leaves behind a legacy of love that lives on in her children: Veronica Dixon, Kimberly Dorsey, Jacquelyn Hill, Donna Rae Smith, Jeanine Smith, and Shannon Bradford. She is also survived by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren—all of whom carry pieces of her in their hearts. She will be missed more than words can express, but her life will continue to shine through every lesson she taught, every life she touched, and every song she loved to sing.

Family will receive relatives and friends on Wednesday July 2, 2025 from 6pm to 8pm at The Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals 145 St. Catherine Blvd. Toms River, NJ 08755. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.ryanfuneralhome.com

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