of Little Rock, AR

October 14, 1931 - June 9, 2025

Bernice Casey Lay, age 93, of Little Rock passed away at her home on Monday, June 9, 2025. She was born on October 14, 1931 in Shiloh, AR. Her family later moved to Heber Springs, AR where she was raised.

After graduating from Heber Springs High School, Bernice moved to Little Rock, AR and furthered her education at Draughn School of Business. She met and later married Lyndell Lay in Little Rock on April 20, 1954. Lyndell and Bernice moved to Waco, TX, where Lyndell attended Baylor University on a G.I. Bill. Bernice held a secretarial position to help support the household in the early years of their marriage. Bernice and Lyndell observed their 71st Wedding Anniversary on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Bernice believed in Jesus Christ and regularly attended Baptist churches wherever she lived. Bernice and Lyndell raised their three children in a Christ centered home where the family attended church weekly. Bernice was active in church in various leadership roles, including teaching children's Sunday School classes.

Bernice enjoyed singing and as a young adult, she was part of a trio who sang on a live radio show in Heber Springs. She also sang in choirs at the churches she attended. Bernice was a homemaker and doted on her family. She maintained the family home while raising three children. Bernice was a very joyful giver and was thoughtful in the gifts she gave others. She made the holidays special and fun, particularly Christmas and Easter. She made everyone's birthday special. She supported Lyndell as he built various businesses. Bernice was a generous person; she enjoyed giving and supporting organizations that raised funds for those in need.

Bernice had many close friends. Her friendships were a very important part of her life. She valued her friends, and the time spent with them.

Bernice passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Bernice is preceded in death by her parents, Chloe and Charles Casey; as well as six sisters, Violet McPherson, Georgia Adcock, Irene Greene, Charlsie Casey, Anita Spurlock and Rosemary Vance.

She is survived by her husband, Lyndell and their three children; Phillip (Pam) Lay, Mark (Cathy) Lay, Michelle (Clay) Dickinson; grandchildren who called Bernice, Niece, Phillip (Morgan) Lay, Jr., Lauren Lay, Chloe (Daniel) McCarty, Sarah Cate Lay, Lindsey Dickinson and Cody Dickinson; as well as two great grandchildren, Harlowe Lay and Hudson Jett Lay. In addition, Bernice is survived by several nieces and nephews.

Bernice's children and grandchildren would like to recognize the incredible care Lyndell has provided for the past five years. Bernice's granddaughter, Lauren Lay, has also provided great support to Niece. Additionally, the family would like to recognize Shawnda's Elderly Care, who have supplied professional and compassionate healthcare to Bernice. A special thank you to Prudence Stegall. Bernice developed a bond with Prudence, who has provided compassionate support for her over the past three years.

Pallbearers are Phillip Lay, Mark Lay, Clay Dickinson, Phillip Lay, Jr., Daniel McCarty, Terry Spurlock and Bruce Spurlock.

A visitation will begin at 9:30am, with funeral services beginning at 10:30am, on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at Park Hill Baptist Church in North Little Rock, AR. Interment will be at the Bradley Cemetery at Clinton, AR.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial to honor Bernice to a charitable organization of your choice.

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