Deaconess Ernestine (Banks) Bedgood

Deaconess Ernestine Bedgood went home to be with the Lord on August 7, 2020 at the Niagara Hospice House in Lockport, N.Y. Ernestine was born on May 27, 1951 in Georgiana, Alabama to the late John Edwards and Lillie Bell Banks. 

Ernestine attended school in Alabama and also worked as a Nurses Aide in Georgiana at a local facility until moving to Niagara Falls, NY in 1984 with her family. There she was employed by the Niagara Geriatric Center. She also had private care clients that she loved taking care of, she had a passion and love for taking care of the elderly. 

Deaconess Ernestine was an active member of the Bethlehem Revival Temple for over 30 years, and served under the leadership of the late Pastor Ruth Williams and later Bishop Evelyn Parmer. Deaconess Bedgood served as a Sunday School Teacher, Choir Member, Kitchen Helper, Door Greeter, and was an Ordained Deaconess. 

Deaconess Bedgood was a worshiper of Christ and by precept and example led many to Christ. She was loving and compassionate and extended herself beyond the Church and into the community. Deaconess Bedgood enjoyed traveling, cooking, shopping, teaching the Word of God and counseling young adults. 

Deaconess Ernestine Bedgood met and married Deacon Clarence Bedgood in 1985. They were married 17 years until his passing in 2002. Deacon Bedgood was a mighty man of God. 

Deaconess Bedgood is survived by her three children, Darris Ladon Thomas of Grand Island, NY Tonja Thomas of Buffalo, NY and Kartika Carr of Niagara Falls, NY. A sister of Etta Norris Coleman of Chicago, IL. A special Nephew Jáshaun Banks of Buffalo, NY. Also surviving is the Bethlehem Revival Temple Church family where she was a Mother to many. She also was blessed to have a step daughter Betty Lederhouse, 14 Grandchildren, 11 great-grand children and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. 

At her request before passing she asked that a special thanks be given to the following people. Her dear friend John Johnson, Deaconess Pamela Kemp and her God Children Pastor Bryan Abrams and First Lady Aisha Abrams of Detroit, MI. 

Deaconess Bedgood was also predeceased by two brothers along with two sisters. 

The family will be present on Friday, August 14th from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Bethlehem Revival Temple, 2010 Virginia Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY, where a funeral service and celebration of her life will begin at 12:00 p.m.  Prayers of committal and interment will follow in Oakwood Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.  Deaconess Bedgood will be escorted to her final resting place via a horse drawn funeral coach. As you prepare to attend, please be mindful to bring face coverings. Arrangements are under the direction of Michael R. Goodlander, OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY (716-297-9007).  Share condolences by visiting Mrs. Bedgood’s tribute page at GOODLANDERCARES.com

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