Funeral service for Mrs. Bertha Mae Burkes, 89 of Harker Heights, TX will be held Thursday, November 18, 2021, 3:00 p.m. at Chisolm's Family Funeral Home in Killeen, TX. Burial will follow the service at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Killeen, TX.

Viewing will be held two hours prior to the service (1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.) at the funeral home.

Mrs. Burkes passed away November 10, 2021 in Harker Heights, TX.

On August 29, 1932, in Marion, Alabama, the Lord decided to place an angel on earth, Bertha, through Essie Lee Williams and Willie Ditaway. At an early age, Bertha was raised by her maternal grandmother, Parlee Norfleet, whom she loved dearly. Grandma Parlee taught her to honor and serve God. Bertha kept true to this wisdom through her persistent faith and devotional practices. She attended several churches with her longest membership at Scotsdale Baptist Church in El Paso, Texas where she was active in several ministries.

Bertha had a strong dedication to family and was the ultimate mother figure to her entire family. She was the "Proverbial Woman". Bertha's huge capacity to love went beyond family as she shared with anyone who crossed her path. In addition to mothering, Bertha worked outside of the home and retired from the Federal Government which 3 of her 6 children followed her example.

Those left to continue Bertha's legacy of love are her children, Pattie L. Slaton (Otis), Elbert S. Burkes, Jr. (Cherise), Julie S. Nunez (Esteban), Marie "Toni" Gordon (Frank), and Angela D. Burkes-Mott (Thomas). Bertha's love was so extensive that she raised two bonus children Duane Sanders, and Ricki Austin plus granddaughter Trinity Davis. Bertha also leaves 21 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren and countless family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her oldest son, Adell Hicks.

Our hearts are heavy with sadness and Bertha will be sorely missed. We know that in God's will and timing we will be together again. So be of good courage, enjoy the many loving and priceless memories. When you experience a heavy grieving spirit, remember Mama's favorite scripture: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" - Romans 8:28.  In the spirit of Bertha, she fulfilled her purpose, let us be mindful of ours.