Bertha Louise Turner Talley was born on July 4, 1933, to the late Claude and Bertha Turner, in Jonesboro, Georgia. She was the youngest of 10 children. She quietly departed this life on May 6, 2022, in Chattanooga.
At an early age, the family moved to College Park, Georgia where Bertha Louise was reared and graduated from South Fulton High School with honors.
Bertha Louise was always aware of the importance of education and tried to set an example for others. She attended Paine College where she acquired an interest in business. To further her knowledge in the business arena Bertha Louise attended Blayton School of Business Science in Atlanta. During this time, she met and married the love of her life Warren Talley. She furthered her education at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where she received a BA in Business Administration.
At an early age, Bertha Louise professed her faith in Christ and joined Laster Chapel UMC Church. When she and Talley relocated to Chattanooga they joined Warren Chapel AME Church where she remained an active member.
Bertha Louise's talents were many. She and Talley were enthusiastic partners and entrepreneurs. They saw the value of entrepreneurship and expanded their real estate holdings across Tennessee and Georgia. After many years of employment, Bertha Louise retired from The University of Tennessee and devoted her time to real estate and property management.
Bertha Louise was a member of numerous civic and social organizations. She was an active member of Sigma Gamma Rho sorority and Jack and Jill Chattanooga Chapter.
Bertha Louise had a very magnetic personality and was considered the Diva of the family. She loved her hats and high heel shoes. Her influence will forever remain in the lives of all who knew her. Her beautiful life and legacy will forever be cherished.
She was preceded in death by four sisters and four brothers.
Bertha Louise is survived by her loving and devoted daughter, Deidre (DeDe), son-in-law, Kenneth Clack; grandson, Kenneth “KJ” Clack; granddaughter, Dekendra Louise Clack; brother, Dennis (Doris) Turner, Atlanta, GA; sisters-in-law, Vera Turner, Atlanta, GA, Jewel Turner, El Paso, TX; brother-in-law, John Turk, Cleveland, OH; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Public viewing will be held from 2-6 p.m. on Monday, May 16, at the funeral home.
An 11 a.m. funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 17, at Warren Chapel AME Church, 503 North Market Street.
Interment will be in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Arrangements are by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 423 622-9995.