Vernice "Granny" Bell Archer

Vernice Lenora Bell “Granny” Archer peacefully departed this life on May 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends as she entered eternal rest with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. During her 101 years on Earth, Granny wore many hats throughout her life — daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great- great-grandmother teacher, prayer warrior, Christian, and a loving extended mother and grandmother to countless people within her community. Her nurturing spirit, wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith touched generations of lives.
Vernice was born on November 24, 1924, in Norfolk, Virginia, to the late Rufus H. Bell, Sr. and Louise M. Bell. She was the eighth of twenty-one children born to their union. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clinton Douglas Mackey Archer, Sr., and nine siblings who reached adulthood : Ophelia B. Dash (Alfonso), Harvey Bell (Marie), Elizabeth B. Perkins (John), Milton Bell (Margaret), Rufus H. Bell, Jr. (Dorothy), Louise B. Harris Cornelius), Virginia B. Wilson (Marcel), Nehemiah Bell (Audrey), and Alphonso Bell (Sarah).

Affectionately known as “Granny,” Vernice graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk, Virginia, in the summer of 1942. That same year, she pursued higher education at Little State University, now known as Norfolk State University. In 1944, she earned her degree in Home Economics, which is known today as Family and Consumer Sciences.
One Sunday, while walking to St. John’s A.M.E. Church, she met the handsome Clinton Douglas Mackey Archer, Sr. Two years later, on December 29, 1947, they were united in marriage. Their loving union lasted 49 years and 11 months until his passing. Together they raised three children: Beverly A. Freeman, Clinton Douglas Mackey Archer, Jr., and Vernice A. Pettaway.

Granny was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker who took great pride in caring forher family. She was known for keeping a spotless home and ensuring her husband and children were always impeccably dressed, often sewing their clothing herself. Most importantly, she instilled in her family a deep love for God and a strong foundation in thechurch — a legacy that continues today.
Once her children reached school age, Vernice worked various jobs to help support her family. Her employment included positions at H.C. Young Printing Press, Norfolk Public Schools as a Substitute Teacher, the S.T.O.P. organization as a teacher, and the United Order of Tents as a secretary.

Granny’s faith in God was the cornerstone of her life. She dedicated herself to studying and teaching the Word of God. She attended extensive biblical training at Rock Church and later shared her knowledge and passion for ministry at St. John’s A.M.E. Church, where she faithfully organized and taught the Grandparents’ Class. She was also an active member of the Chesapeake Fellowship Group, the Nannie C. Phelps Missionary Society, the Lay Organization, and Stewardess Board #4. Granny was especially known throughout the Tidewater area and the Virginia Annual
Conference for her praise dancing. Long before praise dancing became common in churches, she boldly worshiped God through dance. Dressed in her signature white gown and veil, accented with red lipstick, red fingernails, and red crosses on her hands symbolizing the blood of Jesus Christ, she became affectionately known by many as “The Lady in White” and “The Angel.” Her worship inspired countless people and reflected on her unwavering love for the Lord. Vernice was also the heart and glue of her extended family and community. Her home was always open for holidays, birthdays, graduations, reunions, and celebrations. When led by the Lord, she hosted large Thanksgiving dinners, welcoming anyone who wanted a home-cooked meal. Her guests enjoyed her famous homemade rolls, sweet potato pies, lemon meringue pies, chocolate cakes, and other delicious dishes. No one ever left her home hungry, and there were always leftovers to take home.
Her love extended beyond family and church into the community. Granny was an active member of the Green Hill Farms/Coronado Civic League. During the early 1970s, she collaborated with community members advocating for equal educational opportunities for Black students within the Norfolk School System. In 1993, Granny was honored by WTKR News 3 with the “Everyday Hero” Award for her dedicated service to the community through the God and Granny Vacation Bible School Ministry. For more than 30 years, she opened her home and heart to children and families, teaching the Word of God, praise dancing, and Christian values. During the Halloween season, Granny would set up a Nativity Scene outside her home and lovingly teach children and parents about the birth of Jesus Christ before generously handing out treats to everyone who visited. Granny was also one of her family’s greatest supporters. Whenever a loved one took part in a special event, she would often rent a bus, invite friends and family to travel free of charge to show support, and always making sure everyone enjoyed her favorite snacks and refreshments along the way.

Vernice Lenora Bell Archer leaves to cherish her loving memory: her children, Beverly A. Freeman (Robert,Sr.), Rev. Clinton Douglas Mackey Archer, Jr. also known as cake man ( Evelyn – deceased), and Vernice A. Pettaway (Tony); six grandchildren, Crystal A. Weaver (Antonio), Sherron Puryear, Tracy Frith-Carvalho (Basil), Robert Freeman, Jr. (Lakesha), LaToya Archer, and Erika Archer; nine great- grandchildren, Darius Vaughan (Niyzhee), Daniel Frith (MacKenzie), Imani Frith-Carvalho, Lavander Warren, Benjamin Frith-Carvalho, Isaiah Freeman, Jonavin Coates, Celia Frith-Carvalho, and Elijah Freeman; and four great-great-grandchildren, Jayden Frith, Luella Frith, Christopher Frith, and Nariyah Vaughan. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law, Lois Archer, a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and two very special self-adopted Goddaughters, Denise Brooks and Marjorie Wilks.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to her beloved caregiver, Gloria Spruill, who tirelessly and lovingly cared for Granny for more than two years. Special thanks are also
extended to the entire Sentara Hospice team — Nurse Mike, Chaplain Felicia, Social Worker Sherry, Caregiver Sophia, and the many other staff members who worked diligently to ensure Granny received exceptional care, comfort, and compassion during her final days. Finally, the family expresses sincere gratitude to Granny’s devoted friends and neighbors who lovingly watched over, protected and supported her throughout the 67 years she lived in the home where she lovingly raised her family.
Granny’s life was a beautiful testimony of faith, love, service, generosity, and devotion to her family and anyone she ministers to. Her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all
who knew and loved her.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 13 from 4-7pm.  In lieu of flowers, all donations should be made to St. John's A.M.E. Church Restoration Fund in Mrs. Archer's memory.  

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