Bernice Middleton Ensley

Bernice M. Ensley, age 92, of Sylva, NC, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Saturday, June  11, 2022. She was the daughter of the late Spurgeon and Della Watson Middleton. In addition, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jack B. Ensley; grandson, Jack B. Ensley; brothers, J.W., Roy, and Alfred Middleton; sisters, Britta Lee McCoy, Virginia Moody, Glenda and Josephine Middleton, and Woody Patterson. 

Bernice was a member of Ochre Hill Baptist Church. She and her husband Jack built Ensley Rest Home in 1973. After Jack's passing in 1979, Bernice, with the help of her family, continued to own and operate the long term care facility which later became known as Ensley Adult Care Home. Bernice had a passion for loving and caring for others. She had many opportunities to help families care for their loved ones and was blessed to provide this service for 33 years. 

Bernice is survived by her two sons, Boyd Ensley (Cathy) and Bailey Ensley (Cindy) of Sylva; grandchildren, Shannon Ensley, Lacy Ensley (Thomas), Leann Wheatley (Michael), and Logan Ensley (Kayla), of Sylva; great grandchildren, Gage and Gunner Wheatley, Jackson and Ensley Stephens of Sylva; brothers, Kenny Middleton (Linda) and Ronnie Wilson (Susie) of Forks, Washington; sisters, Melba Harris (Bob) of Castle Rock, Washington, Joy Oldfield of Monroe, Washington, Elizabeth Davis of Forks Washington, Linda Middleton and Patricia Shields (Johnny) of Sylva; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bernice was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She spent countless hours caring and doing for others. Bernice's grandchildren and great grandchildren were her greatest joy. She cherished every moment with them. Bernice will hold a special place in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. 

A Graveside Service will be held at Old Field Cemetery on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, at 12:00 pm. Pastor Earl Holden will officiate. 

Pall bearers will be Gary Waliezer, Ryan Waliezer, Chad Woody, Michael Wheatley, Thomas Stephens, and Laramie Stephens. Honorary pallbearers; Gage and Gunner Wheatley, and Jackson Stephens. 

Appalachian Funeral Services of Sylva, NC is serving the family.