- Date Of Death: August 5, 2019
- State: Indiana
Mrs. Bernice Marie Smith-Guynn was born on April 15, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois. She was the third child of Benjamin W. Smith and Serrilda C. Mayfield-Smith. Bernice was baptized Catholic and became a faithful member of St.
Bernice began her education in the Chicago, Illinois local schools, and continued her education in Indianapolis, Indiana when her family migrated to Lockfield Gardens. She graduated from School # 4 Grade School in 1939, and from Crispus Attucks High School in 1945, Magna Cum Laude. Bernice later served as Chairperson and souvenir program creator for her classmates’ 50th and 60th class reunions.
After serving 3 years at Camp Atterbury, Bernice, on February 7, 1948 was united in Holy Matrimony to Maurice Anthony Guynn. They were married by the associate pastor Father Raymond Gates at St.
Bernice worked for the Indiana Department of Welfare for several years before joining the administrative staff at St.
Knights of St. Peter Claver – 3rd Degree
Bernice became a member March 14, 1965. A 54 year member of Christ the King Court #97. Served as Grand Lady of Christ the King Court #97 twice. Silver Medal Recipient in 1988 Member of the Initiation Team for new Courts and members Chaired and Co-Chaired the By Laws Committee, while also participating in many Fund Raising activities with our Brother Knights Served on, as well as, chaired planning for Northern District Conferences Believed in following the 3rd degree Constitution and doing it correctly, in order, and by the book.
Knights of St. Peter Claver – 4th Degree / Searcy L. Greenwell, Chapter #14 Ladies of Grace
A Charter member of Chapter #14, Bernice was elected the 1st Navigator on Feb. 14, 1981 and served again as Navigator in 1995. First Supreme Navigator Mattie Lampkin appointed Grand Lady Guynn to chair the first Constitution Committee for the Ladies of Grace. Worked tirelessly at the first Conclave to get Grand Lady Marie Cavanaugh elected first Supreme Comptroller at Conclave in Detroit, Michigan. Under Bernice’s leadership, Chapter #14 submitted the criteria for uniform of Ladies of Grace. It was received, accepted and voted on by the body and the Sir Knights approved it at Conclave in Houston, Texas. Established (along with Sir Knights) the Emergency Aid Society — providing food, shelter, heat, clothing on week-ends (Friday-Sunday — 10:00 am – 12 noon) with Sir Knights. Chaired Scholarship committee, and was a great advocate for CCD program for our young people and promoting Catholicity.
Indianapolis Fire Department
At the time when most people are considering winding down in the work force, Bernice began her 3rd career at the Indianapolis Fire Department in 1976. She was a trailblazer becoming the first African-American woman to work in an administrative position there. In her late 40’s, Bernice didn’t flinch when proposed with the challenge of repelling from a 60 foot tall tower.
From Scratch Cakes
As a culinary entrepreneur, Bernice founded “From Scratch” which introduced unique designs, shapes, and textures into the world of Bundt® cakes. From the arena of an artistically quaint and experienced kitchen, deliciously sinful cakes and cobblers were mixed and baked to heavenly perfection. State- of- the- art mixers, blenders, and culinary utensils added a special touch of professionalism to the art of Bernice Guynn’s 70 plus years in baking. With several flavors and designs to choose from, one was sure to find a cake and or dessert to suit every taste bud’s desire.
Bernice Marie Smith Guynn departed from this earthly life to receive her Heavenly reward on Monday, August 5, 2019, at the age of ninety-two, three months and twenty-one days.
She is reunited with loved ones who preceded her in death: husband, Maurice Anthony Guynn; infant son, Vincent Eugene; parents, Benjamin and Serrilda, sister, Susie Belle Smith-Hurley and brother, George Norman
