Beatrice Minter

1930 – 2016

Beatrice Minter, born April 17, 1930 in Bolivar, TN, was the fourth of thirteen children born to Ola T. Weaver and Cleo Griffin Weaver. Beatrice had two brothers and ten beautiful sisters that were raised on the family’s farm. She was educated in the Hardeman County School System. She committed to Christ at an early age and later joined Antioch Baptist Church in Whiteville, TN under the leadership of Reverend C.H. Murphy.

Her memorial service was held on Sunday October 9, 2016 at 12:00 noon at Antioch MB Church MB Church (Whiteville, TN) with Minister Nahada Gudger in charge. Dixie Funeral Home (www.dixiefuneralhome.com) was in charge of the professional service.

It was well known that the Weaver girls were the best looking girls in Hardeman County, Alsmith Minter always knew he would marry one of them. As fate and love would have it, he married Beatrice on February 15, 1948 in Benton County, MS. It was a union that lasted fifty-six years. Through this union nine children were born. Seven boys and two girls, one girl (Kathleen) preceded her in death. Beatrice was the matriarch of the family. She was the glue that kept our family together. She was caring, inspiring, and a loving individual. She taught her children and grandchildren to love God and others, to treat others as they wish to be treated and the value of working for the things desired.

Beatrice warm personality, her class, style, grace, quiet but strong disposition, afforded her an opportunity to work as a technician with Western Mental Health Institute. She worked at Western for over thirty years and even after retirement she continued to volunteer by preparing meals/snacks for the residents. Beatrice loved children and this love was displayed on a daily basis. She was affectionately known as Granny Bea to all of the kids at Bolivar Head Start.  She loved to cook and her home was always open to those in need. She will be remembered for her famous turkey and dressing, homemade pound cakes, lunch and dinner. All of the meals were plentiful and nourishing. She enjoyed quilting, traveling, playing Scrabble, watching Wheel of Fortune, reading, completing 1000 jigsaw puzzles and time with family.  She was  Master Gardner and could use that food to feed a multitude of individuals. 

Beatrice was a faithful member of Antioch Baptist Church in Whiteville TN. She truly adored Pastor David L. Boyle, Sr. She served as an usher, a member of the Senior Ministry, attended weekly bible study, and Church school until her health began to decline. She recently served on the board to select a Pastor. Along with serving in the church and being involved in different activities, she not only raised her children but also thought enough of her grandchildren /great grandchildren to raise them. She did not mind telling anyone about how much she truly loved her family. Beatrice was the perfect wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, relative, and friend. She was always supportive of all of the family functions and endeavors. She did not miss a graduation, celebration, or any event of recognition.

On Monday, October 3, 2016, Beatrice loving light of life transitioned her to a place in heaven. She was preceded in death by her husband, Alsmith Minter, daughter Kathleen Bills, two brothers, Eugene and Griffin, and six sisters Ola Mae, Sharlene, Lois, Clara, Ernestine and Louise. She aslo has a great grand-daughter Maurica Kishun that is rejoicing with her in Heaven. She leaves to cherish her memories her children: Alve Minter of Bolivar, TN, James (Mary) Minter of Pinson, TN, Robert (Jeanette) Minter of Bolivar, TN, Dietrich (Sandra) Minter of Bellwood, IL, Esther Minter of Elgin, IL, Leonard Minter of Bolivar, TN, Gerald (Carla) Minter of Bolivar, TN,  and Donald (JoAnn) Minter of Memphis, TN. Sisters: Martha (Robert) Tatum, Deborah Miller of Bolivar, TN, Dorothy Armour of Chicago, IL, and Evelyn Greening of Southfield, MI. Beatrice raised a total of twenty-one grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren, ten great-great grandchildren, and two gran gods. Beatrice had several special friends (Dannie Jarrett, Jo Ella Beard, and Marie Taylor) along with many many more. She held a special place in her heart for her daughter in laws, nieces, nephews, relatives, co-workers, and friends. Her life was an extension of God’s love. She is absent from the earthly realm and is now safe, healed and rejoicing in Heaven. Well done, Beloved. Well done! 

 Service Information