Alverna Melvina Pelley's Obituary
Alverna Melvina Pelley, affectionately known as Grandma Pelley, was born on October 21, 1918 in Readyville, Tennessee to Ellis Douglas and Walter Lyons. She departed this life at the age of 95 on March 29, 2014 at her home in Berkeley, California. Alverna was the second of four children. She was preceded in death by her parents, her two sisters, Alice and Isabelle; and is survived by her brother, Silas Anderson. Alverna was educated in Santa Barbara, California, and attended various community colleges within Alameda County. In 1939, Alverna met and married John Hensley. From this union one child was born, Cherron Goree. As a young widow, Alverna later met and married Ulysses A. Pelley who preceded her in death in 1996. From this union three children were born; Geraldine Vayson, Lathan Pelley and Ronald Pelley. Alverna also cared deeply for, Albert Pelley, who she loved unconditionally, and treated as her own son. Alverna was employed at the Navel Supply Center in Oakland, California and retired after 43 years of devoted service. During her tenure, Alverna
was one of the few Mrican-American women who rose from the ranks of clerk into upper management. She was highly respected and admired by all who came to know her; and received many accolades for her superior
work ethic and perlormance. Alverna dedicated her life to community service within the City of Berkeley. She was among the first AfricanAmerican women in her community to advocate for social change. Her work with the City of Berkeley’s school district, PTA, and various council members was very instrumental in improving the condition of many. In addition to serving others, Alverna focused on her family, dear friends, and pursuit for continued education. She was a very caring person with an open heart and open home to all who knew her. Alverna had a love for sports, science fiction books, cross word puzzles, playing Bridge and Bid Whisk; and enjoyed traveling with friends and family. She also loved going to the casino to play the slot machines, cooking, family gatherings, and the close bond she developed with her sister Isabelle, and her dearest friends Dorothy Smith, who preceded her in death; and Frances Porter, a friend for 69 years
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