Bertha (Matthews) Ellis

Bertha Matthews Ellis was born on October 25, 1944 to the late David and Beatrice Matthews.  She was born in Coy, Alabama.

She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was a devout Christian throughout her life. 

Bertha attended Brighton High School.  Upon graduation, she attended Miles College and graduated with a Bachelors in Education.

She was united in matrimony to Joe Ellis, Sr. and their union was blessed with the birth of two sons, Joe Ellis, Jr. and Berrahkas Kyle Ellis.  She loved her sons dearly.  She cherished talking to and spending time with them.

Bertha had many interests, but truly loved flowers and clocks. She had the same passion as her mother, Beatrice for flowers.  Bertha absolutely loved to plant and care for flowers.  She took pride in taking flowers in bad shape and nursing them back to health.  She loved to work in her garden.  Bertha also loved to collect clocks and put them all throughout her house.  Time was very important to her.  She knew how precious time was and that it should not be wasted. 

Bertha worked as a teacher at Shelby County High School for over 20 years in the Shelby County school district.  She was a shepherd to many young people during her time as a teacher.  She also coordinated the Special Olympics at Shelby County High School.  After many years of being an Educator she was able to retire from the Shelby County School System.

Bertha loved the Lord and was a faithful, dedicated member of Canaan Baptist Church.  After retirement, she would volunteer at Canaan Baptist Church, working with the kindergarten class.  She loved to work with young people and prepare them for the future.

Bertha truly loved her family and her cats.  She faithfully took care of Berrahkas’ cats and would spend as much time as she could with her sons.

On July 16, 2021, Bertha Ellis departed this life for eternal rest. She was preceded in death by Joe Ellis, Sr., her parents, her brothers Charlie Matthews and Willie Matthews.

Her beautiful life will forever be cherished by her sons, Joe Ellis, Jr. and Berrahkas (Chalita), brother David Matthews (Sadie), Goddaughter Kaneesha Lilly and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins and friends.

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