Bernice Smith Thomas of Gloucester, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Susie and Jackson Smith; her husband, George H. Thomas, and six siblings.

She earned her bachelor’s degree from Virginia State University and a master’s degree from Hampton Institute (now Hampton University). She continued postgraduate work at William & Mary and received numerous certificates in teaching and guidance.

Ms. Thomas was a member of the National Association of College Women and was appointed to the Gloucester School Board in 1992 for a four-year term. She received the NAACP Freedom Fund Woodville 2025 Legacy Award.

For more than 30 years, she served as a teacher, guidance counselor and, ultimately, the Director of the Guidance Department at Gloucester High School. She was a member of Saint Paul Baptist Church, Gloucester.

Survivors include a daughter, Faye Thomas Lemon; a sister, Gladys Griffin; two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at The First United Baptist Church, White Marsh. The Rev. Bradley Holmes will deliver the eulogy. The family will greet friends beginning at 2 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow on Monday, Sept. 22 at 11 a.m. at Rosewell Memorial Garden Cemetery, Hayes.

Memorial donations may be made to Saint Paul Baptist Church, 5575 Page Road, Gloucester, Va. 23061.
Carter Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.