The life of a servant

The legacy of Bernis Blake, Sr., 83  began on June 19, 1939, in Rosston, AR. He was the first son and the second child born to John Allen and Winnie Mae Blake. On December 08, 2022, GOD no longer allowed him to be entangled in this life and called him to rest. He grew up and attended school in Rosston. AR.

Once an adult he joined the Army and furthered his education and training. He spent most of his time in Korea He retired from the military in 1995 as Master Sargent. In 1961, he married the sweetheart of his life, Mary. Together they had five children. She was instrumental in leading him to Holiness, As a couple, they captured much attention. Everyone observed them and he was proud of his wife. She preceded him in death and he was never the same. His parents, two brothers, two sisters, and one daughter preceded him in death.

In 1991, he accepted his call to the ministry. He saw hope for "940" and would not turn from it, He saw hope when others didn't. His early time in Holiness was at Living Waters COGIC. They were faithful members until his call to being a Pastor. He was appointed Pastor in 1995 by a strong recommendation from Bishop Carl Ratliff, Sr. What he was able to accomplish at "940" was circulated throughout the country. Not only was Pastor Blake respected in the AR/LA/TX jurisdiction, but he was respected In the National diocese. He worked loyally with his Presiding Bishop with his vision for the National Headquarters. For the work that he did, he will never be forgotten. He was appointed National Sunday School Superintendent and; served faithfully and with excellence until his health failed.

He was an avid gardener. He loved plowing, planting, and watching the results. He often told the story that he told his father when he left Rosston, he would never have a garden. Yet everywhere they lived, there was a garden in the backyard.

On Thursday, December 08, 2022, GOD saw where he had suffered enough and transferred him from here to eternity A daughter (Berniece Elaine), his lovely wife, his parents, two sisters & two brothers all preceded him in death.

To cherish his memory, are his four children, Bernis Jr., Melody, Sheri, (Jimmy), and; William. Two grandchildren ( Larnel Barnes II, Clarisa Blake), five great-grandchildren (Larnel Barnes III, Trey, Laniyah, Kennady, Mary-Reagan, Brooke), three brothers Clinton (Lisa), Jackie (Beverly), and Tommy (Benisha). A host of nieces, nephews, and; cousins, and other relatives, as well as a church family.

The Visitation will be from 4:00 – 6:00 PM, Friday, December 16, 2022, at Evangelist Temple House of Refuge for All Nations COGIC 1146 Pleasant Street Hot Springs, Ar 71901. A celebration of life will be held at 12:00 PM Saturday, December 17, 2022, at Living Waters Church of God in Christ 306 Grove Street Hot Springs, Ar 71901. The Burial will be Monday, December 19, 2022, at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery 1501 W. Maryland Ave. North Little Rock, AR 72120.

The guest registry is at http://www.carriganmemorial.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.