Bernice Dussia

Bernice Dussia December 25, 1944-April 27, 2021 (Thelma) Bernice Davis Dussia passed away peacefully on April 27th, 2021. Bernice was born on Christmas Day, 1944 in Leachville, Arkansas to (Willis) Bill and (Delores) Lorene (Moss) Davis. She joined her older sister (Joyce) Geneva and two years later, they were joined by their brother Owen. The Davis Family moved to Michigan when Bernice was an adolescent, where she faced very humble beginnings. This only made her stronger and as she grew into her teenage years, Bernice became very self-sufficient and discovered her own way of conquering any challenge in front of her. On August 4th, 1962 Bernice married Phil Dussia, her loving husband of 57 years. Together, they brought daughter Debbie and son John into this world. Referred to as “Benny” by many friends and coworkers, Bernice was employed at both Kal Equip and Mead/Rock Tenn in Otsego. She was admired and respected for her work ethic and determination to succeed. Bernice always stayed active, down-hill skiing with family, participating in softball and bowling leagues, and flower-gardening at home. Bernice’s self-taught business skills and tremendous hard work created a very successful and fulfilling life. Bernice and Phil invested wisely in several rental homes and were able to utilize their investments in later years to open a total of four assisted living homes. These homes were beautifully designed and decorated by Bernice and Phil and they spared no expense to ensure the residents felt like they were home. Bernice and Phil privately and generously shared their hard-earned wealth on a regular basis by donating to worthy causes and sponsoring families in need. Bernice was a wonderful hands-on grandmother to Ben, Brittany, Brad, and Jase. She had an incredible ability to create unforgettable family traditions that included making popcorn balls, visiting the pumpkin patch, building gingerbread houses, decorating Christmas trees, having huge Christmas Eve dinners, and hosting amazing pool parties. While Bernice really enjoyed spending time in her and Phil’s “dream home”, she equally enjoyed traveling with family and friends. From road trips to casino visits to overseas islands, Bernice took every opportunity to make memories with those she cared for. Bernice left an incredible legacy admired by all that knew her and will be deeply missed by those that survive her: Children Debbie (Jimmy), John (Casie); Grandchildren Ben (Nicole), Brad (Kelcie), Brittany, Jase; Great-grandchildren Amon, Amarah, Logan, Allie, Talon, Ava, Ariellah; Brother Owen (Darlene); Special doggie named Boo. She has joined her husband Phil in Heaven, as well as parents, sister, and a special aunt and uncle-in-law. A relaxed gathering of family and friends will take place on Friday, May 14th from 1-3pm at McCowen Secord Funeral Home in Plainwell, where a sharing of memories will take place at 2:30pm. Hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be served. A private burial of ashes will take place on a day of the family’s choosing. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to American Brain Foundation (www.AmericanBrainFoundation.org) in Bernice’s honor. While visiting Bernice’s webpage at www.mccowensecord.com please sign the guestbook by lighting a candle, and/or sharing a memory with the family.