Bernice Helton Sisemore
Bernice Helton Sisemore, 97, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
She was born in Dayton, but later moved and lived her life in Chattanooga. She graduated from Central High School in 1946 and went to work for Interstate Life. She later worked as the superintendent of the Industrial Department at Orange Grove Center where she was awarded the first Wanda Flemimg Award for Dedication and Service. Bernice was a member of Brainerd Hills Baptist Church where she was a member of the Ladies of Grace Sunday School class and faithfully worked with the babies in the nursery for many years. She was a charter member of the hostess committee and loved working on all of the special functions.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Allen Sisemore Sr.; parents, James Thomas and Sally Kate Dixon Helton; four sisters, Louise Wooden, Lila Williams, Peggye Bowman, and Alline Burns; three brothers, J.T. Helton, Johnny Helton and Kenny Helton; five brothers-in-law, Jessie Williams, Nickey Bowman, Jimmy Splawn, Max Murray and William Wooden.
Bernice is survived by two daughters, Karen Hyde and Kathy (Rusty) Bailey; son, Doug(Pam) Sisemore Jr.; ex-son-in-law; Eldon Hyde; two sisters, JoAnne Splawn and Christine Murray; two sisters-in-law, Diane Helton and Linda Helton; brother-in-law, Ken (Eleanor) Burns; five grandchildren, Tommy (Melissa), Sallie (Jerry), Joshua, Allen, and Edward; five great grandchildren, Madison, Jade, Jada, Jessie and Abigail, great great grandchild, Brysen; god grandchildren, Kristie, Cameron, Braxton, Haylea and Lucia; Many loved nieces and nephews, numerous grand dogs and grand cats.
Bernice's deep passion for her Savior Jesus Christ is undoubtedly the spring from where her loving and caring personality flowed. Her loving presence and sweet smile will be missed. Her welcoming spirit and open arms made one feel loved and excepted. She was a prayer warrior and loved to be prayed for or to pray for you. She once wrote, Being God's child, I can go to him in prayer. Without prayer I would be the most unhappy person in the world. She loved to tell Jesus she loved him and would tell others to “LOVE JESUS.”
Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 20, at the funeral home, and 1-2 p.m. on Thursday at Brainerd Hills Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, at Brainerd Hills Baptist Church with Pastor Mark Smith officiating. Interment will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at Chattanooga National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brainerd Hills Baptist Church or Hearth Hospice.
The family would like to express deep gratitude to Jennifer for her loving care while with Hospice.
Visit the online obituary www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories.
Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.