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https://vimeo.com/event/5571890 Bernice Woods Gooden was born on November 19, 1933, in Round Rock, Texas, to the late Morris Woods and Thelma Baker Woods. She peacefully departed this life on December 1, 2025, surrounded by love. A woman of grace, strength, and unwavering faith, Bernice left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Bernice accepted Christ at an early age at Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, where she remained a devoted and active member until her health no longer allowed. Her faith guided her throughout her life, and she was known for her kindness, compassion, and steady presence within her church family. She graduated from Hopewell High School in Round Rock, Texas, where she formed lifelong friendships and built the foundation for her future endeavors. Her dedication to education and community would continue to shape her life’s work. Bernice dedicated over 20 years of service to the Texas A & M AgriLife Extension Program, working as a nutritional counselor. In this role, she touched countless lives by educating families and community members on healthy living. Her commitment to service and her genuine love for people made her an invaluable asset to the program until her retirement. Bernice was known for her vibrant spirit and joyful energy. She loved to dance, socialize, attend church, and spend time with her family—moments that brought her true joy. Her laughter, wisdom, and bright personality created memories that her loved ones will cherish forever. She was the proud mother of three children and was blessed with two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored. Her family was her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Bernice was preceded in death by her father and mother, Morris Woods and Thelma Baker Woods; her sons, Courtney Gooden and Jimmie Gooden; and her brother, Maurice “Bubba” Woods. She leaves to cherish and rejoice in her memories her loving daughter, Connie Brooks; granddaughter Tamika Watts (Kenneth); grandson James B. Brooks III (Yolanda); and great- grandchildren Myles Vaughn and Cydney Vaughn. She is also survived by her brother, Gordon Woods; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins; and her special cousins, Andrea Rose and Valencia Cavanagh. Bernice Woods Gooden will be remembered as a devoted servant of God, a loving mother, grandmother, and great‑grandmother, a dedicated professional, and a joyful soul who brought light into every room she entered. Her life was a gift, and her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her.

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Bernice Gooden

November 19, 1933 - December 1, 2025