Bernice Small, born on December 18, 1947, in Greenville, North Carolina, was the daughter of the late Bernice Small and Robert Small.

Bernice worked in a variety of roles throughout her life, including as an assembly worker at Pratt & Whitney, a cashier at Big Y Grocery Store, a seamstress, and a licensed cosmetologist. She was also dedicated to serving her community through the Grandparents Program, as a Family Planning Counselor at Lincoln Bassett School, and at Jackie Robinson Middle School.

A devoted member of Pitts Chapel Baptist Church under the leadership of Bishop Elijah Davis, Bernice faithfully served in the Home Mission Department, visiting the sick and offering comfort and support. She loved reading the Bible and listening to gospel music.

Bernice leaves to cherish her memory her son, Kendtrick Small of New Haven, CT; her siblings, Danny Roach, Pete Small, Violet Small and Gail Gaither all of New Haven, CT; Jerome Small of Virginia; Terri Lee and Iesha Lee, both of Raleigh, NC, and Vincent Baker of Maryland. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Kenyatta Pierce, Taylor Holloway, and Leslie Brantley, all of New Haven, CT, and JaKari Tinsley of West Haven, CT; as well as her great-grandchildren, Dion Thomas Jr. of Tennessee, Ava Rose Thomas of West Haven, CT, Milani Rose Thomas of Virginia, Cadence Brantley, Chase Brantley and Yuri Pierce.

She was predeceased by her siblings Willie Small, Robert Small, Charlene Small, Jackie Gaither, and Larry Gaither, and by her grandchildren DaVinya Hawkins and Dion Thomas Sr.

A Memorial Service celebrating Bernice's life and legacy will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Curvin K. Council Funeral Home, 128 Dwight Street, New Haven.