Bertha Lee Lallal

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Bertha Lee Lallal, affectionately known as "Pinkie," who departed this life on March 4, 2025. Born on March 29, 1936, in Dutchville/Oxford, North Carolina, Pinkie was the cherished daughter of Aaron Bethea Bailey and Mary Anna Hunter. She was later lovingly adopted by Corine Harrison-Perry and Ezra Perry, who played pivotal roles in her life.

Pinkie received her education at the Kittrell/Franklinton Rosenwald School and completed her studies at Kittrell College, both in Kittrell, NC. Her early years were spent in the nurturing community of Shiloh Baptist Church in Kittrell, where she was baptized and raised in faith.

Pinkie relocated to Baltimore, Maryland, in 1964 and spent most of her work life at Johns Hopkins University. For 25+ years, she worked in the Milton S. Eisenhower Library as supervisor of the Book Repair and Preparation Unit until her retirement in 2010.

Pinkie made many friends in Baltimore and enjoyed her social life with them. She became quite popular for her love of dancing and making crafts, which further added to her popularity as she gifted many of them to friends, family, colleagues, and strangers.  

Pinkie was known for her vibrant spirit and zest for life. Her warm smile and generous heart touched the lives of many, and she will be remembered for her kindness and unwavering support to family and friends.

In her personal life, Pinkie found love and companionship in Chester Egerton, whom she married. Chester, born in Franklinton, predeceased her. Together, they were blessed with three children, Martha, Chester, and Katie.

Pinkie will be greatly missed by her family and friends; we thank God for the lives she touched. She is preceded in death by her parents, and siblings: Sarah Bailey, Carolyn Bailey, Michael Bailey, Curtis Bailey, Lynn Bailey, and Reginal Bailey. 

Pinkie leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and creativity. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who knew her.

Pinkie's life will be celebrated on March 15, 2025, at Alight Funeral & Cremation Services, LLC. in Henderson, NC. The family invites all who knew and loved her to join in honoring her remarkable life and the joy she brought to so many.

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