With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Bernice Cleveland, a loving and devoted mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and a friend to all whose lives she touched, on April 7, 2024. Born on June 22, 1944, she lived a full life of love, care, thoughtfulness, and courage.

Bernice is survived by her daughter, Tracie Cleveland (Raymont Harris); son, Kerwin Cleveland; grandson, Cameron Thomas; great-niece, Jania Wilson (Zyla); sister, Jacqueline Portis Clanton (Charles); and her step-sons, Brian (Charlie) and Tony (Avis) Cleveland. She also had a host of other grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ronald Cleveland; Ronald Cleveland Jr. (son), Beronda (daughter), her sister, Beatrice Portis; sister, Annette Wilson; brother, Roosevelt Portis; and her parents, Henrietta and Sylvester Portis.

Throughout her life, Bernice remained strong in her convictions, always staying true to herself. She graduated in 1962 from Brighton Highschool, in 1967 from Stillman College and was a proud member of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. Her resilience and bravery served as an inspiration to those around her. Bernice dedicated her life to nurturing young minds in her longstanding career as a high school teacher. Her legacy of kindness and generosity touched countless lives and will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and students who adored her.

A funeral service to celebrate Bernice's life will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 11:00AM CST at Roberts Funeral Home in Bessemer, AL. As we commemorate her life, we honor a woman whose selfless love and immense courage left an indelible mark on the world. Her memory will be honored, cherished, and carried forward by the countless people who loved her.

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