Bernice Riley, age 92, of Jacksonville, Arkansas passed away on November 29, 2025. She was born on April 24, 1933 in Earl, Arkansas to Rufus Tate and Emma Thomas.

Bernice is preceded in death by her parents; sons Bruce Edwards, Charles Edwards, Lester Edwards; her husband Ed Riley; two brothers Rufus Tate and Chester Tate; and sister Fannie Moore.

She is survived by her children Johnny Edwards of Jacksonville, Dereice Walters (Clarence) of Jacksonville, John Henry Edwards Jr. (Pauline) of Osceola, Frank Edwards of Jacksonville, Willie James Hines of North Little Rock, Bonita Edwards of Osceola, and Phyllis Edwards of Little Rock; 42 grandchildren and great-grandchildren; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Bernice loved talking about God and telling people about him. She loved going to church and spending time with her church family. Bernice never met a stranger. She enjoyed talking and telling stories. She worked at Walmart and worked in home care as a CNA for over 32 years.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 from 6:00-8:00pm in the chapel at A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville. The funeral service will follow of Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 10:00am at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church located at 1017 Ray Rd, Jacksonville, AR. Burial will take place at Arkansas Memorial Gardens in North Little Rock after the service.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com