Bertha Matilda Avery
May 23, 1923 – December 7, 2024

Bertha Matilda Avery, 101, of Morganton, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, at Brockford Inn Assisted Living in Granite Falls. A woman of extraordinary faith, kindness, and sharp wit, Bertha touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of love and dedication.  Born on May 23, 1923, in Burke County, she was the daughter of the late Henry Robert and Sarah Jane Collette Avery. A lifelong and devoted member of Willow Tree AME Church, Bertha served in numerous capacities, including Trustee, Steward, Sunday School Teacher, and Class Leader of Class #1. She was a member of Stewardess Board #1, the Senior Choir, and the Sarah Jane Avery Missionary Society, where she served as 1st Vice President and the Western North Carolina Conference Women's Missionary Society where she inspired others with her vision, commitment, and tireless service.

In 1961, her unwavering commitment to ministry was recognized when she received an Evangelist Certificate from the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  Bertha also worked for many years as a domestic caretaker, embracing the role with pride and dignity. Her dedication and humility reflected her strong values and character, qualities she imparted to everyone who knew her.  Affectionately known as "Aunt Bert," Bertha was a cornerstone of her family and community. She embodied love, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility. Whether offering guidance, maintaining order in her neighborhood, or nurturing the spiritual growth of others as a Sunday School teacher, she approached every role with conviction and grace.  Bertha's wisdom and candor were cherished by those who sought her advice. Her oft-repeated encouragement, "Let God be God," resonated deeply with all who heard it. She championed accountability and integrity, teaching the importance of respect and trust in God through her actions and words.  She was a proud member of the Pride of the West Chapter 581, Order of the Eastern Star; Daughters of Isis Gizeh Court No. 131; and Loyal Ladies No. 361. Beyond her church and fraternal organizations, she contributed her time and passion to the Burke County Historical Society, and the NAACP.

Bertha was preceded in death by her siblings: Gilmore Avery, Janie Avery, Thomas Avery, Rochelle Avery, Lillie Avery Bristol, Robert Avery Sr., Eloise Avery Kanipe, Nora Avery Beam, and Charles Avery Sr.  She is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who deeply cherished her. Her wisdom, kindness, and unwavering love will live on in the countless lives she touched and the lessons she imparted.

Bertha Matilda Avery's life was a profound testament to faith, perseverance, and selfless service. Her legacy will continue as a guiding light of hope, strength, and love for all who were blessed to know her.

A homegoing celebration honoring the life and legacy of Ms. Bertha M. Avery will take place Saturday December 14, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Willow Tree A.M.E. Church with Rev. Anthony Radcliff serving as the eulogist; interment will follow in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service; Ms. Avery will lie in repose for public viewing from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. in the Corpening Memorial Chapel of McCain Funeral Home & Cremations.

The service will be livestreamed on the McCain Funeral Home & Cremations Facebook page and YouTube Channel; the links are found below:

McCain Funeral Home & Cremations Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/mccainfuneralhome/

McCain Funeral Home & Cremations YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu4qb7IT7sO-Kc0BRs05J-A