Bernese Reeves, 79, of Dawsonville, died July 14, 2012.

Born Dec. 17, 1932, to the late Luster and Ruby Grant, she was a lifelong resident of Dawsonville. A homemaker at her death, Mrs. Reeves worked in public health for the health departments of Dawson, Lumpkin and Forsyth counties and retired after 19 years of service.

She possessed a loving nature, which made her mother to a host of family and friends.

She was a member of Harmony Baptist Church.

Her husband, Gene Reeves; son, Eddie Reeves and two brothers, preceded her in death.

Survivors include her son, Winfred Reeves and his companion, Kay Burton of Dawsonville; sisters, Nadine Holland, Madge Whelchel, both of Dawsonville; brother and sister-in-law, Wayne and Faye Grant of Dawsonville; sisters-in-law, Odeleen Talley, Grace Abernathy, Martha Reeves, Jewell Reeves, all of Dawsonville; various other relatives also survive.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. July 16 at Harmony Baptist Church with the Revs. Joey Gilbert and J.W. Day officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery.

Bearden Funeral Home of Dawsonville was in charge of the arrangements.