Bernice Conway

August 16, 1934 – July 6, 2026

Born on August 16, 1934, in Sulligent, Alabama, to parents Worley and Flora Truelove, Bernice Truelove Conway, was a woman of grace, intelligence, faith, and unwavering dedication to education, family, community. She believed that knowledge was one of life’s greatest gifts and her commitment to lifelong learning led her to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree, and to devote her career to teaching elementary school.

Beyond the classroom, Bernice lived a life of service and sisterhood. Bernice was a devoted member of the graduate chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she embraced the organization’s mission of public service. She was also an active member of the Black Women’s Caucus, the Mississippi Club, and the Stepping Red Hatters of greater Tacoma, cultivating lasting friendships while uplifting those around her. Bernice loved music and could rarely resist the opportunity to dance, especially to the electric slide. She found peace in tending to her garden, celebrating life’s special moments and gathering with family and friends. Holidays were filled with lots a food served on her best china and crystal.

Above all else, family was the center of her life. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughters, Gail Conway Gray (Bryant Enge) and Channas Conway Stewman (Malbert Stewman). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Jordon Woodring (Kaelin Kerr), Alexander Gray, Christopher Gray, and Avery Woodring Conway. She was also blessed with one great-granddaughter, Amara Woodring.

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents Worley and Flora Truelove, sisters Lucille Swanigan and Louise Morgan, niece Lillie Lou Johnson, and nephew Johnny Harris.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we celebrate a remarkable woman whose life was defined by purpose, love, education, and service. Her memory and legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Service Information
A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 11:00am at
St. John Church | Transformation Ministries Intl., 2001 South J Street, Tacoma, WA 98405.

A burial service will be held in Sulligent, Alabama on September 12.

The family sincerely thanks Traci, Simone and Steven who provided loving care for Bernice over the past four years, including during hospice.