Bessie Bernise Kinard

Bessie Bernise Butler Kinard, 71, died Sunday, February 18, 2018 at North Mississippi Medical Center, in Tupelo, MS.  Bernise was born December 3, 1946 to Eugene and Irma Mae Calvin (Thomas).  Bernise was a resident of Clarksdale, MS before her illness and care in Tupelo, MS.

Bernise was a woman of joy, class, elegance, integrity, and accomplishments.  Bernise was a graduate of W.A. Higgins High School Class of 1965 and a Jackson State University Class of 1969 graduate.  Bernise was a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated and a member of the Elks Club.  During her working career, Bernise was a teacher in the Clarksdale Municipal School District and the Quitman County School District. 

Bernise was a lifelong member of Metropolitan M.B. Church where she remained a faithful servant and church pianist until her health failed. 

Visitation will be Friday, February 23, 2018 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM at the funeral home.  The funeral service will be Saturday, February 24, 2018, 11:00 AM, at Metropolitan M.B. Church, 428 Ashton Ave., Clarksdale, MS 38614 with the Rev. I.D. Thompson officiating.  Burial will follow at Heavenly Rest Cemetery, Lyon, MS. 

Bernise leaves to cherish her memories two children, Dr. Yolanda J. Butler and Damarr M. Butler, Esq. (Christina); mother, Irma Mae Calvin; granddaughter, Taylor Butler; brother, John Calvin (Susan); sister-in-law, Susan Calvin; niece, Angela Self (Jeremy); nephew, Michael Calvin; and a host of other relatives and friends. 

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