Bertha Pridgen Crowder

 Bertha Pridgen Crowder, 83, of Powhatan, Virginia, went to be with the Lord, on January 14, 2024 in her home surrounded by family.

Bertha was preceded in death by her husband of 31 years, Linwood Mason Crowder; her parents, Ottis Irl Pridgen and Virginia Clara Galloway Pridgen; and siblings, Burt, Ernie, Otis, Rebuta, and Frances. She is survived by her children, Diane B. Strickland and husband, David, of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina; and Daniel C. Bennett and wife, Lisa, of Powhatan, Virginia as well as 7 grandchildren, Christine (Jon), Laura, Shelly (Alejandro), Sarah (Bruce), Emma, Ruth, and Daniel; 4 great-grand children, Ayden, Elizabeth, Wyatt, and Savannah; and several nieces and nephews. 

Bertha was born on June 8, 1940 to Ottis Irl Pridgen and Virginia Clara Galloway Pridgen in Richmond, Virginia. Bertha affectionately known as BB, Bert, or Nanny worked for C&P Telephone and retired after 25 years of service. After meeting her husband, Linwood at C&P Telephone they moved to Powhatan with their children. Linwood and Bertha enjoyed gardening, raising animals, and country living. BB lived on the property for the remainder of her life.  

BB was a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother who will be remembered for her joy, generosity, selflessness and love for God. She was a faithful caregiver, hard worker, maker of delicious food, bird lover, and collector of many things. Her final wishes were that her children, grandchildren and everyone she encountered would know that Jesus loves them.

Service will be held at Emmaus Christian Church in Powhatan, VA on Saturday, January 20th, at 2pm with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.