Bernice F. Childs

On January 14, 1910, God presented a marvelous creation, Bernice Frances Childs (a.k.a. Neicey) to the late William and Frances M. Childs. She was delivered at Garfield Hospital in Washington, D.C. She was one of two offspring. Her brother, William Childs, predeceased her. At an early age, she lived in Virginia with her grandmother. Her grandmother operated a restaurant on the waterfront. It was in this nurturing environment that she learned to cook. At the age of fourteen, Bernice began working as a cook for a prominent family in Virginia. When her employer moved to Philadelphia, they asked Neicey to move with them. Enroute to Philadelphia, Neicey stopped in Baltimore to visit her relatives. Upon her arrival, they would not allow her to travel any further. Neicey was a woman of ambition and independence. Her move to Baltimore allowed her many opportunities to work in various jobs. Neicey always shared her memories about her work experiences with her friends. As a young lady in 1943, she joined the family of Arthur and Blanche Laupheimer as a cook and a maid. Neicey worked for the Laupheimer family for forty-five years until she retired. Her culinary skills blossomed while in their employ. As a cook, she was extraordinary! The Laupheimer’s and their extended family and friends enjoyed her creations. In the Laupheimer family, Neicy was not only respected, she was loved. Here she found the love of her life, “Michael.” These two had a mutual respect and love that lasted till her passing. Whenever a decision had to be made Neicey’s first response would be, “ What did Michael say?” “Check with Michael.”, “Where is Michael?” Neicey had a great flair for life. She enjoyed traveling, entertaining friends, and card playing. If you ever sat at her table once, you would leave desiring another invitation. Neicey was a very generous person who was always willing to help others. In her youth she attended the family church in Virginia. After coming to Baltimore she was a regular attendee at various churches. In later years,She affiliated with Simmons Memorial Baptist Church. Finally she joined Gillis Memorial Christian Community Church. For many years she was a resident of Bel-Park Tower and was a regular participant in social activities. Approximately twenty-five years ago, on a trip to Myrtle Beach and enduring friendship was forged with Charles N. and Margaret Wells. After a brief hospital stay she became a resident at Levindale Convalescent Home. The staff tried to include her in many programs and activities. She was a very fashionable dresser and took care of all of her personal needs. Many residents and visitors were captivated by her effervescent personality. Among those left to mourn are: her family, Michael and Eleanor Laupheimer; all the other members of the Laupheimer family, Charles N. and Margaret Wells; Vivian Sellman; Minerva Lewis; Marion Dixon; and a host of other relatives and friends.Respectfully,The Family

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Bernice F. Childs

January 14, 1911 - March 23, 2002