Bernell Elie, Sr. Obituary (1950 - 2023)

Bernell Elie Sr was born in Pineville, La on November 30, 1950, to the late Thelma Griffin and Clarence Elie. Bernell was the 9th child of 21. He was a man of few words and very well respected by family and friends alike. Bernell was introduced to religion at an early age and later in life baptized at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church by the current pastor, Reverend Ronnie Humphrey Sr. Bernell married the love of his life, the late Ruby Lee, in 1972 upon his return from the Vietnam War. From this 49-year union, was born one son and two daughters; nineteen grandchildren and one great grandchild. These two shared an endless love and devotion to one another and were resemblant of a teenage love with heartfelt displays of affection. Aside from being a devoted father and husband, Bernell served his country through the United States Army for over six years and fought in the most controversial wars of his time, the Vietnam War. Bernell returned home from the War and began working for the City of Alexandria as a facilities Supervisor and remained employed there for over a decade. Prior to his death, Bernell enjoyed spending time with his family and sharing birthdays and special occasions with his grandchildren. He leaves to cherish his memories, one son: Bernell Elie, Jr (Shieka), two daughters: Temeshia Lawson (Fredrick) and Courtney Elie (Damian), and a "pup pal", Sir Gray all of Alexandria, LA; one grandson of Kansas City, KS: eighteen grandchildren of Alexandria, LA; one great grandson of Colfax, LA; sixteen siblings: Clarence Elie, Jr. (Betty), Lionel Elie, Charles Elie, Donald Eli, Calvin Elie, Sr. (Patricia), and Anthony Sr. (Sylvia) of Alexandria, LA; Ferguson Eli (JoAnn) of Dallas, TX; James Eli (Shirley) of Beaumont, TX, and Jerry Elie (Beverly) of Gonzales, LA; seven sisters: Blanche Reed and Gloria Elie of Dallas, TX; Ethel Jones (Howard) of Lecompte, LA; Amelia Gilmore, Mary Bennett (Clifton Sr.), Pauline Martin, and Alfreda Carter (David) of Alexandria, LA, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Ruby Elie; a grandchild, Brayden Elie; his parents, Clarence and Thelma Elie Sr; one sister, Almarie Norris and one brother, Vernon Eli. Bernell lived a joyful, carefree, and vibrant life. He was surrounded by loved ones upon his passing. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers. ~Miller & Hill "The Funeral Directors"