Bernette ‘Poochie’ Lynn Sturgis, loved the Lord
Bernette Lynn Sturgis, 54, of Millsboro, departed this life Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017, at Penisula Regional Medical Center, Salisbury, Md. Bernette was born April 19, 1963, in Lewes to Daisy Sturgis and the late Almer Roger Sr.
Bernette, known as "Poochie," received her education in the Indian River School District, graduating in 1982. She was employed at Mountaire (formerly Townsend Inc.) in Millsboro for 30 years until her health started to fail.
Poochie's jublilant spirit captivated all who came in contact with her. She loved people and displayed it. She was the model of Proverbs 18:24, A Man that hath friends must shew himself friendly; and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”
Poochie enjoyed listening to gospel music, dancing (and she could dance!) and watching TV until late into the night. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.
In August 2013, Poochie moved to Exmore, Va., with her brother, until her illness caused her to reside at Riverside Shore Rehabiltation Center in Parksley, Va. Poochie was very active at the center. She became vice president of therapy activity and vice president of resident council. In September, Poochie transitioned to Manokin Manor in Princess Anne, Md.
Poochie gave her life to the Lord in 2013, becoming a member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Exmore, under the leadership of Pastor Jeffrey Smith.
Poochie was preceded in death by her father, Almer Rogers Sr.; two brothers, Alvin Rogers and Larry Rogers; two sisters, Theresa Jarmon and Barbara Faye Crump; and one niece, Leticia Sturgis.
She leaves to cherish her fond memories, one son Deonte (Shakira) Sturgis of Rehoboth; mother Daisy Sturgis of Millsboro; two brothers, Almer (Rennie) Rogers Jr. of Exmore and Apostle Thomas (Sylvia) Sturgis of Millsboro; six sisters, Linda Bailey of Norfolk, Va., Juanita Sturgis of Milford, Yvonne (Brian) Cannon, Brenda Sturgis (companion David Fogg), Darlene (Thomas) Jolley, Regina (Douglas) Mackey, all of Millsboro; one stepgrandson; Elijauh Whaley of Rehoboth; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Celebration of life service will be held Saturday, Dec. 2, at St. John's 2nd Baptist Church, 26602 Mt. Joy Road, Millsboro, at noon. Family and friends may visit two hours prior to service.
To offer words of comfort, or sign the guest book, visit www.benniesmithfuneralhome.com. Professional services entrusted to Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Millsboro.
