The last great contemporary witness 1938 - 2026
Bertha's daughter, Ms. Valerie Nero (grandniece of Mahalia Jackson), wrote a wonderful obituary about her mother:
Obituary
Bertha Mae Harris Reine’ was born on October 25, 1938, to Yvonne Enola Harris and Robert Joseph Harris. On January 7, 2026, God called her home to eternal rest.
Bertha was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She lived a life rooted in faith and devotion to her family. Her strength, wisdom, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her son, Whitney Nero Jr. She leaves to cherish her precious memory, her husband, Milton Reine; her daughter, Valerie Nero; four grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends. Bertha was raised listening to Gospel music, but also loved dancing to songs by Aretha Franklyn, Roberta Flack, Johnny Gil, and Frankie Beverly and Maze. She was a skilled seamstress, that also enjoyed embroidery, arts & crafts, painting, and traveling.
Bertha Mae was the niece of Mahalia Jackson, who was Yvonne Jackson’s sister. At the age of 24 her first marriage failed. It was at this time that Mahalia invited her to Chicago for support, healing, and encouragement. A strong bond was created and Mahalia encouraged her to stay as a confidante and travel companion. She assisted Mahalia during her concerts throughout the world. Because she was close to her aunt she became friends with the young Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as other civil rights leaders. Bertha witnessed some of the most historical moments in the Civil Rights Movement. She accompanied Mahalia to the “March on Washington,” which she elaborates on during a lecture archived at Xavier University in New Orleans. Bertha took care of her aunt during times of sickness and kept her occupied and calm by teaching her to embroidery and cross stitching.
Bertha loved to talk, and made friends easily at church, her community, and during her travels. She will always be remembered for her unique style and calm personality.
Bertha Mae and Mahalia Jackson, 1963 at the “March on Washington“