Mrs. Bertha Bass Fox is an exceptional woman of unwavering faith and one of the oldest residents living in West Jackson. She was born to the late Tolman and Mazie Bass on August 23, 1916 in Gainestown, Alabama. Mrs. Fox is one of seven children and is the only living sibling.

As a young lady, she attended and completed Cosmetology School in Gulfport, MS in the early 1950’s and became known as the “press and curl” beautician of the neighborhood. She also received her diploma as a practical nurse in 1965 and moved back to her beloved Jackson, AL.

She accepted Christ early in life and was baptized at County Line Baptist Church. Upon moving back home, she became a member of the New St. Matthew Baptist Church. She and her sister, Mrs. Ollie Johnson, were the “ushers” at the front door of the church for many years. When her sister’s health failed, Mrs. Fox became her primary caregiver and was a devoted and wonderful caregiver to her sister.

She is the oldest living member of New St. Matthew Baptist Church. Although she lives in MS, she still prays for the church and continues to provide her financial support.

Her life is truly the work of the Master Designer, Jesus Christ! She often reminds her daughter, Clara Williams, that God will never leave or forsake us. He daughter explains that she does not know anyone who can say, “Praise the Lord” like her Mama. She believes, without question, that God has promised He will supply all of our needs. He has and always will be faithful to his Word!

In June of 2006, Clara Williams brought her mom to live with her in Jackson, MS. She said, “She is my blessing”! Although she lives in Jackson, MS, she always says, “you can have your Jackson, MS – I will take my Jackson, AL”!

Mrs. Fox was and still is very passionate about voting on Election Day. After she moved with her daughter, the next step was to get her registered to vote.

She is so very proud to tell everyone that she voted for President Barack Obama. Everyone knows how she feels about President Obama, and she often receives gifts that have his name or picture on them.

Mrs. Fox is the proud mother of one daughter, Clara “Von” Williams.

Her family will have two 100th Birthday Celebrations! The first celebration will be held in Jackson, MS from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Pearl Street AME Church Fellowship Hall, located at 2519 Robinson Street. The second celebration will be held in Jackson, AL on September 17, 2016 at New St. Matthew Baptist Church Fellowship Hall from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Well wishes to commemorate her 100th Birthday may be sent to Mrs. Bertha Fox, c/o Ms. Clara Williams, 1024 Matthews Avenue, Jackson, MS 39209.

For more information please call 601-940-2745.