Bernice Mae Walker Riley
September 18, 1941 - December 23, 2024
Beckley, West Virginia
Bernice Walker Riley, 82, of Salem, Virginia passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024 peacefully at home.
Bernice is survived by her children, Jack (Jan) Walker, Linda Riley and Johnna Sanson; grandson Derrik (Andrea) Sanson; granddaughters Addison (Robert) Dufour and Sydney Walker; great grandson Asher Sanson; nephews Larry Lowery and Wayne Roberts; and great nieces Felicia Lowery and Andrea Lowery.
Bernice was predeceased by her mother Pansey Perkins Walker, her father Claude Walker, her brother Edward Walker, her sisters Helen Walker Lowery and Betty Walker Roberts, and her husband Mac Riley.
She was born in Raleigh General Hospital in Beckley, West Virginia, known for its beautiful mountain scenery, the artistic heritage and craftsmanship of West Virginia, and Appalachian culture. Bernice spent her childhood years in Beckley, and attended high school at Woodrow Wilson High.
Bernice was always very close to her sisters, Helen and Betty. You could always tell the Walker girls were together because the house would be full of laughter, usually cooking together or simply enjoying each others company.
If Bernice had a special quality, it was her ability to bring humor and love into any situation. While raising a family, kids can test both patience and boundaries, and Bernice was quick to celebrate, protect, and love her children, grandchildren, great grandchild, and even extended family. She was a huge part of her family's life, often stepping in to help care for grandkids, hosting weeks at her Salem house for Derrik, Addison and Sydney. Bernice especially thrived during holidays with the house full of her family, always bringing a smile to anyone who was lucky enough to be the recipient of a "Mama hug."
Bernice leaves behind so many warm memories for all that knew her. We will miss her dearly and look forward to celebrating her life in Beckley, West Virginia on Friday, December 27, 2024 at 12:00 pm at the Chapel of Melton Mortuary, 1200 Harper Rd., Beckley.

The family and all who loved Bernice would like to send a special thank you to her daughter, Linda Riley, who cared for Bernice so well over the last few years of her life.
Melton Mortuary and Cremation Center has the honor of serving the family Expressions of sympathy and comfort may be offered to the family by visiting Bernice's website tribute page at www.meltonmortuary.com