Bertha Lee Grant, was born on January 28, 1949 in Anguilla, Mississippi to the late Levi Sr. and Willie B. Smith; She was the sixth of ten children. Her family moved to Greenville, Mississippi where she attended Greenville City Schools in Washington County. She was a member of the Glee Club and the school choir. She was a graduate of Coleman High School class of 1968.

In 1969, Bertha moved to Cincinnati, Ohio where she married Willie L. Grant, Jr.  Their union was blessed with two honorable and respectful children; Dexter and Yolanda. Bertha joined the New Friendship Baptist Church under the pastoral care of the late Harvey L. Benford. She served God and her church faithfully for over 48 years under the leadership of Rev. Dr. H. L. Harvey, Jr. and most recently Bishop Michael F. Mack.  Bertha considered it to be an honor to serve in the House of Lord.  She served diligently in various capacities including the Ladies Aid Club, Church's Anniversary Committee, Vacation Bible School Registration, and several other special projects as needed.

Bertha had a strong work ethic and earned the respect of her co-workers and received accolades for being an exemplary employee.  She worked for Federated Department Stores as a Department Manager for 26 years until her position was relocated out of state.  For the past 15 years she worked for SGS Automotive Services until her health began to decline. Bertha was a phenomenal cook.  Her culinary ability gave her much joy and satisfied the taste buds of many.  She was known for her healthy dishes, chicken salad, famous pound cakes, delicious sweet potato pies, punch-bowl cake and banana pudding.

Bertha always looked forward to attending the annual family gatherings and class reunions.  She took great pride in beautifying her yard with beautiful flowers.  She was the recipient of several gardening awards and recognition.  Her lawn often displayed the Community Beautification flag.

Bertha had a contagious smile, a giving spirit and a compassionate heart. She touched the lives of people that she came know. She will truly be missed.

Bertha was proceeded in death by her parents Levi Sr. and Willie B. Smith, a sister, Odessa Grant, and a brother, Levi Smith, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children; Dexter Grant (Lisa) and Yolanda Holmes (Zeller); grandchildren: Eboni Morgan and Evan Grant; 1 great grandchild: Romello Lee Morgan Campbell; 1 sister: Lucille White; six brothers - H.W. Smith (Phyllis), Izaiah Smith, Douglas (Connie) Smith, Johnny B. (Pat) Smith, Aaron (Margaret) Smith and Harry (Rose) Smith; a host of nieces, nephews and many special friends.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the staff of University of Cincinnati Medical Center and Drake Center Hospice unit for the attention and gentle care extended to our loved one.

Visitation is from 9:30 am until 10:30 am on Saturday, August 10, 2019 at the New Friendship Baptist Church, 3212 Reading Road, Cincinnati  (45229).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 10:30 am.   Bishop Michael F. Mack, Officiating.

Interment will follow at Landmark Memorial Gardens, 1600 Glendale Milford Road , Cincinnati, Ohio 45215. Pallbearers will be H. W. Smith, Izaiah Smith, Douglas Smith, Johnny B. Smith, Aaron Smith, and Harry Smith.

To share a memory of Bertha or leave a special message for the Grant family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home, 7272 Hamilton Avenue, Mt. Healthy (45231)  is serving the  Grant family.  Please call (513) 251-6200 or visit www.WalkerFuneralHome.com for additional information.