SMITHFIELD—Bernadette Jefferson died April 4, 2008.

She was born Dec. 16, 1963, to the late Violet and Arthur Jefferson Sr.

She became a member of First Gravel Hill Baptist Church during her childhood years and attended Smithfield High School.

She had a unique persona about herself.

She didn’t say very much, but when she did you can bet it was usually something smart or a joke, followed by a smile to let you know she was only playing.

Survivors include five children, Dashawn Lovell Jefferson, Takeisha Lachelle Jefferson, Chandra Katrice Jefferson, Myron Jerome Jefferson and Alexis Mone’ Jefferson; her father, Arthur Jefferson Sr.; three sisters, Yvette Grandison (Ricky), Cheryl Warren (Tony) and Ermon Raynor (Maurice); three brothers, Harold Jefferson, Rudolph Jefferson (Lutherine) and Jeremiah Jefferson (Deloise); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Preceding her in death are her mother, Violet Jefferson; brother, Arthur ‘Wig’ Jefferson Jr.; and one of her favorite cousins, Bernadeen Newby.

Funeral services will be held noon today at First Gravel Hill Baptist Church with the Rev. Bobby Bowser officiating.

Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Viewing will be held one hour prior to the service today at the church.

Poole’s Funeral Home is handling arrangements.