Elva Berneice Walters

Elva Berneice Walters was born on May 20, 1928, to Louis and Mamie Bradshaw. She passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, with her loved ones by her side.

Berneice was a strong and determined woman who devoted her life to her family and her passion for education. She courageously raised three exceptional children on her own, instilling in them the values of perseverance, integrity, and compassion.

Teaching was Berneice’s greatest joy and life’s calling. She often said that if she could change even one child’s life through teaching, then her life on Earth would be worth it. Throughout her career, she did exactly that, changing countless lives through her dedication to education. She served as an English and speech teacher and directed UIL plays for Idalou Independent School District, inspiring students to find confidence in their voices and creativity in their expression. She later retired from what she considered her greatest achievement and reward: teaching remedial reading at Alderson, where she helped many children learn to read, leaving a lasting impact on families and the community. Outside of the classroom, Berneice loved to travel and treasured her experiences exploring Europe. Her curiosity, compassion, and love of learning remained with her throughout her life.

Berneice is survived by her children, Margaret (Gaylon) Amonett of Lubbock; Steve (Sue) Walters of Brentwood, California; and Claudia Adamson of Fate, Texas; as well as her seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Mamie Bradshaw; her brothers, Loyse, Fred, and Clyde Bradshaw; and her son-in-law, Dean Adamson.

Elva Berneice Walters will be remembered for her strength, devotion to education, and the profound impact she made on generations of students and all who were blessed to know her.