Bernice Blanks

Bernice Griffin Blanks was born July 27, 1928 to the late Silvester Griffin and Susie Griffin Woods. She was the oldest child of this union. Bernice united in holy matrimony with Rodgers W. Blanks, and to this union six children were born. Bernice accepted Christ at an early age. She joined the East Jerusalem Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. E.H. Hart in Picayune, Mississippi, at an early age. She was active in the choir, served as secretary of Mission #2, and used her gift of stewardship as financial secretary of the church. Her 12 years of service were of such high caliber that she received a plaque commemorating her excellent work and dedication. Mother Bernice was a tremendous cook, who shared her gifts in her church and community. She ministered life to people through her generous giving. Working as a seamstress at D.L. Cleaners, she remained faithful in all her endeavors there in Picayune until her move to Albuquerque. After moving to Albuquerque, Mother Blanks joined the New Hope Full Gospel Baptist Church and served faithfully in many capacities including volunteerism providing food to students at the New Hope Christian Academy; food to the homeless and underemployed at Project Share; member, Bible Institute Senior Adult Class; and member of Senior Choir. She volunteered her culinary skills for numerous special events. Mother Bernice is most known for being a Titus 2 woman. She trained and encouraged others by her example and her great wisdom. Mother Blanks' beautiful smile and demeanor were infectious to all who knew her. She received numerous awards and certificates for her service in ministry, including city-wide recognition as the Citizen Award recipient for New Hope Church. Mother Bernice also worked faithfully in the community. She served as a cook at the Casa Maria Rest Home. She was also acknowledged with certificates of appreciation by Boys Town and St. Joseph�s Indian School, where she helped Lakota Native American children live brighter, happier lives. Mother Bernice was an excellent example of service to her fellow man. She possessed the gift of helps and used it regularly to advance the kingdom of God. Whatever her hand found to do, she did it with great dedication and love. Her mission work being completed, she responded to God�s call home. Mother Bernice Blanks was preceded in death by her mother and father, Silvester and Susie Griffin; her husband, Roger; two of her six children, Rainey and Elizabeth; one sister, Alice Woods Burton; One brother, John Houston Wood; and two grandchildren, Dwight and Roger Jamison. She leaves to treasure her memory her children, Mrs. Louella Jamison of Albuquerque, NM; Pastor Rosalind Solomon of Slidell, LA; Mr. Frank (Joyce) Fields of Slidell; Mrs. Susan (Alexander) Paige of Slidell; One sister, Mrs. Barbara (Rev. Tommie) Haralson and two brothers, Rev. Walter B. (Andrea) Woods of Hutchinson, KS; and Mr. James (Aundrel) Woods of Baton Rouge, LA; son-in-law, Rev. Lewis Burton, Sr.; One granddaughter, Keishawn of Slidell, LA; One grandson, Mr. Lamont J. Paige of Atlanta, GA; and host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. A service will be held Saturday, March 30, 2013 at New Hope Baptist Church at 11:00 am, 1901 Pennsylvania NE, Albuquerque. Services are entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 1100 Coal Ave. SE Albuquerque NM 87106