Another Life Celebration

Celebrating the Life and Legacy

Dr. Wilma J. Bivens “

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge

JUNE 17, 1941 — JULY 24, 2020 SUNDAY, AUGUST 2, 2020 — 4:00 P.M. THE ISLAND OF HOPE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 1505 GREGG STREET | HOUSTON, TEXAS 77020

BISHOP PRINCE E. W. BRYANT, SR., PASTOR / OFFICIANT

A Virtuous Woman her price far above rubies

“

May

the Work I’ve Done Speak for Me”

Dr. Wilma Jean Bivens was born on June 17, 1941, to the parents of Richard Murray Sr., and Suzie Elizabeth Campbell. She was the second of two children. Born, reared, and educated in Nashville, Tennessee, Wilma began her musical training under Jimmy Osborn (uncle), a noted pianist and organist in Nashville. Wilma became a member of the Gospel Chords, the sister group to the then famous Royal Gospel Singers of which Bobby Jones was a member, where she traveled and toured with such groups as the Traveling Notes., the Gospel Pearls and many others to include Rev. James Cleveland. She was educated in the Nashville, Tennessee Independent School District.

Upon moving to Houston, Wilma was a member of the Houston Interdenominational Choir under the leadership of the late Mr. Eugene Williams, and has served on the music staff of the Mount Horeb Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. S. H. Smith, Pastor, The New Mount Carmel Baptist Church, Rev. C. A. Berry, Pastor (deceased), the Sunlight Baptist Church, Rev. Roy E. Easley (deceased); Rev. C. L. Harvey (deceased). Wilma met and married Deacon Frank Bivens for 20 years. She became a member of the Anderson Memorial Church of God in Christ, now The Island of Hope Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Bishop Prince E. W. Bryant, Sr. She has served in many areas of the church to include: Sunday School Superintendent, Pastor’s Aide President, Coordinator of Musicals, Director of Pageants, Praise and Worship Leader, Choir President, and Minister of Music.

Wilma was a long‑time member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, Inc. (GMWA) where she served as captain of the soprano section leaders of the national mass choir, and a charter member of the Houston Chapter of G.M.W.A. She has been the featured soloist on many recorded projects through the years including Rev. Eugene Williams and the Interdenominational Choir on a single “Precious Lord,” as well as “Bye & Bye,” with V. Michael McKay and the Redeemed Family, “Do You Want To Be Healed?” the Houston Chapter GMWA, live with Rev. James Cleveland singing “Only The Righteous,” the New Mount Carmel Baptist Church Choir, “Didn’t I Tell You,” Brian Dunlap and Total Praise “Make Me A Blessing,’ Damian Price “God Meant It For My Good,” the National Mass Choir of GMWA featured on “Over In Zion,” “Come On In The Garden,” and live in Orlando, Florida, “Think of His Goodness.”

Wilma has served as an Executive Board Member of the International Music Department of the Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Evangelist LaVionia Whitley and Professor Iris Stevenson. Wilma is a licensed Evangelist Missionary. On February 26, 2006, Back in the Day Productions honored Wilma at “They Gave Us Gospel,” a celebration of Houston’s gospel music pioneers, and in July 2009, Wilma was celebrated as a Gospel Music legend by the Houston Chapter of the Gospel Music Worship of America, receiving the James Cleveland Gospel Music Pinnacle Award recipients who for 20 years or more, have demonstrated excellence in several areas of gospel music and have been active, both locally and nationally in the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA), as well as a featured artis t during the Gala

Celebration.

Wilma completed her debut project entitled “God Will Do It,” that was released in June 2009, and received her Doctorate of Sacred Music Degree from the Christian Bible Institute and Seminary, December 2, 2009. In June 2012, Wilma recently celebrated 65 years in gospel music. In September 2012, she was awarded the Lee Ida Brown Campbell Award in recognition of service in the gospel music, presented by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, during the 4th Annual National Gospel Music Heritage Month “Evolution of Gospel.”

She is preceded in death by both parents, Richard Murray, Sr., and Suzie Elizabeth Campbell, and husband, Deacon Frank Bivens; brother‑in‑law, Spencer Bivens, Jr.; sisters-in-law, Mabelene Bivens, Emma Watts, Pearl Simmons.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Fred Nichols, Michael Nichols, Mary Nichols Russaw, Brian Dunlap, Angela Bivens Newell, Margaret Cole; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; brother, Bishop Richard Murray, Jr.; sisters-in-law, Eleanor Murray, Mary Lee Smith, LaVern Bivens, LuVern Mercer; sister, Diane Walker; nieces, Theresa Murray, Kim Murray Houston, step‑wife, Mary Berry-Peoples; extended family, other relatives and friends.

THE

BIvens

love

Story

CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF

Dr. Wilma Jean Bivens Sunday, August 2, 2020 | 4:00 p.m.

Bishop P. E. W. Bryant, Sr., Officiating ORDER OF SERVICE Prelude ................................................................................................................................................. Soft Music Processional .......................................................................................................................... Clergy and Family THE HOLY SCRIPTURE READING Old Testament ........................................................................................................ Pastor Shannon Oliver New Testament ............................................................................................. Pastor Michael P. Williams Prayer of Consolation ...................................................................................... Rev. Dr. Lekesha R. Barnett Selection ........................................................................................................................................... Andrea Baty

Acknowledgments/Resolutions ........................................ Missionary Ursula Gordon-Higginbotham Selection .................................................................................................................................... Chad Stevenson Expressions ................................................................................................................................................................

As A Church Member ......................................................................................... Mother Yolanda Bryant As A Mentor .................................................................................................................................. David Hart As A Friend ............................................................................................................... Chester D. T. Baldwin As A Musician ................................................................................................................ V. Michael McKay Selection ............................................................................................................................................. Treva Jones EULOGY ................................................................................. BISHOP PRINCE E. W. BRYANT, SR. Recessional ............................................................................................. Clergy, Bearers, Family & Friends Funeral Director in Charge

WILMA JEAN BIVENS

Family Tribute From Children Dear Wilfa, Each one of your children had a different name for you. Mine was Wilfa you called me May Helen. This is one of the hardest things I’ve had to do. Wilfa, you were not just my mom, you were my friend. You taught me how to use my gift of hands to serve God and others. You taught me how to love and embrace those who needed to be cared for, and to never ever judge anyone. You were a Genius when it came to the music ministry and a fundraiser. I knew when you called and said “May Helen I just had a light bulb moment.” We would laugh so hard I told you, girl turn the light off because I

Woven together by choice, Strengthened together by love, Tested by everything, and each Uniquely ours. Because of my daddy you became my mom. We developed a special Love that I will cherish in my heart forever. I know you loved me and I know

you knew I loved you too. So many experiences caused us to have an undeniable bond. You are forever branded in my heart. I love you mom. You and daddy are together again We aren't Step; We aren't Half; We're just Family Angela (Bivens) Newell

knew I was going to be quite busy. I loved your ideas and I loved being in your presence when they came to life. I was so proud of you, you demanded respect and the best from everyone that was a part of your circle. Your love for me was unending and I knew this. You had a smile that would light up a room. I know God was pleased with you and His arms were so side when He welcomed you home. I will miss you beyond belief. Now you don’t have to turn off your light bulb.”

With So Much Love, May Helen Hey Girl, I just wanted to take this opportunity to tell you thank you. Thank you for the wisdom you’ve shared over these 45 years of my life. Thank you for the example you displayed showing me how to be faithful in ministry.

Thank you for making me understand that using our gifts to glorify God is a privilege and that money should never be the reason to do so, or as you would say “our gifts are not ours to pimp out”.

Thank you for the love of music. Thank you for showing me how to love and make everyone feel special. Thank you for showing me that no matter how many new children you allowed to love on you and claim you, that I was still your baby. Thank you for creating so many special moments and opportunities for me that I wouldn’t have experienced if I wasn’t your child.

Thank you for giving me favor in this music industry. Thank you for the countless times of uncontrollable laughs. Your humor was one of a kind. I can’t tell you how many times people have texted or called me to tell me that they will never sit next to you in church again because of it. Thank you for letting me produce your first album. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of being by your side and taking care of you when you needed it. But most of all THANK YOU FOR BEING MY MOM!!!!

I love you with my whole heart, Brian

My Wilma Jean, If roses grow in Heaven, Lord please pick a bunch for My Wilma Jean. Place them in Wilma Jean’s arms and tell her they’re from me and her family. Tell My Wilma Jean, I love her and miss her. And when My Wilma Jean smiles place a kiss on My Wilma Jean’s cheek and hold My Wilma Jean. I’ll remember My Wilma Jean everyday with a smile. My Wilma Jean will never go away. I will always love you, Mom, My Wilma Jean. Love Michael.

See It Through When you’re up against a trouble, Meet it squarely, face to face; Lift your chin and set your shoulders, Plant your feet and take a brace. When it’s vain to try to dodge it, Do the best that you can do; You may fail, but you may conquer, See it through!

Black may be the clouds about you, And your future may seem grim, But don’t let your nerve desert you, Keep yourself in fighting trim.

If the worst is bound to happen, Spite of all that you can do, Running from it will not save you, See it through!

Even hope may seem but futile, When with troubles you’re beset, But remember you are facing, Just what other men have met.

You may fail, but fall still fighting; Don’t give up, whate’er you do; Eyes front, head high to the finish. See it through!

Love Always, Fred

WILMA JEAN BIVENS June 17, 1941 — July 24, 2020

Family Tribute From Grandchildren/Great-Grandchildren The word declares in (Hebrews 9:27) that its appointed unto men once to die. That is one reality we can not escape. Im rejoicing at the fact that i know without a doubt, your heart was fixed & your mind was made up to run with Jesus all the way. Granny i thank you for EVERYTHING you’ve done for me throughout my life. You have been there EVERY TIME i’ve needed you & times i didn't have to say a word you just knew.... I owe everything I know about music & discipline to you. You have labored year in & year out, now its time to get your rest. You’ve made it to the finish line & i know for sure that there is a crown of righteousness laid up for you. You & paw paw are together again... Love you granny!!!!

Caleb Chatham FAREWELL To Our Precious Grand/Great-Grandmother Words Cannot express how much I’m going to miss you. You’ve taught me So much. I’m So grateful that God has allowed me to be with you. You accepted Everything about me! I’ll Forever Keep you close to my heart. Our last conversation that we all laughed at was when I told the doctors to give you some “Chitlin Soup”. You laughed at me. Now I’m crying because you’re gone. I’ll miss you Granny. See you later...

Darrick Nichols

Granny!!! You are a genius. Our love and the life we lived together was perfect for us.

I'm so grateful to the Lord and to you because I never needed binoculars when it was time to watch you captivate nurture and change every life. You live in my bones and I miss you so much the pain takes my breath away. You were the love of my life Bivens. I'm so very very proud of you.

Tootie

Although our hearts mourn for you, And our eyes are filled with tears We are thankful that we had you To love and guide us through the years.

You were always an inspiration.

Your strength, it knew no bounds.

I know that God has blessed you With so many heavenly crowns.

So, farewell our Precious Grand/ Great-Grandmother You will always be in our hearts We will remember your gentle teachings From which we’ll never part.

From your grandchildren, great-greandchildren

This was your vision I’m glad I was able to be a part of something great. I WILL CONTINUE AND CONTRIBUTE to that vision my love!!

Our talks, I will never forget the things you told me. Your energy will live on through me and the rest of your family. It was an honor to be amongst a great soul such as yours. You saved and talked me through the darkness that I went through. As a child it made the product of a man that everyone can see today. You blessed me with a WONDERFUL MOTHER, Sewing Mary Russaw to continue the legacy of a king.

I love you!!!

Phat Daddy (Carl)

Wilma’s Life Journey in Portrait

I JUST WANT TO THANK YOU LORD

C Major

Thank you Lord Thank you Lord Thank you Lord I just want to thank you Lord

You've been so good You've been so good You've been so good I just want thank you Lord Lord I thank you for the sunshine I thank you for the rain I thank you for the peace in knowing, my trials don't come this day And I thank you that someday soon, I got heaven to gain I just want to thank you Lord You saved my soul You saved my soul You saved my soul I just want to thank you Lord Thank you Lord Thank you Lord; (I just want to thank you Lord) Thank you Lord I just want to thank I just want to thank I just want to thank you Lord!!!!

Wilma’s Life Journey in Portrait

Wilma’s Life Journey in Portrait

W ilma

Wilma’s Life Journey in Portrait

Heaven Wow! The streets are paved with gold.

Majestic radiant glory all around, Family reunited from yesteryear,

Music, vibrant, so rich a sound.

Look! I am out of bed and I can walk straight, my scooter and walker for ever gone, The pain and misery left behind, Body eternally healed, medication done.

Then I saw Him — The Lord once slain, How awfully He suffered to save me!

His arms reach out — welcoming, His hug and kiss, pure ecstasy.

My aged voice rejuvenated, Bursting within, I sing His praise, I am so glad that Jesus loved me, Words worthily repeating for eternal days.

Wilma’s Life Journey in Portrait

SPECIAL

Thanks

The Wilma J. Bivens Family would like to thank Bishop P. E. W. Bryant, Sr., the Island of Hope COGIC Family and each and every person for your many acts of kindness whether it was a card, visit, phone call or prayer—your thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. Please continue to pray for us for we know that prayer is the only thing that will sustain us during this very difficult time.

P A L L B E A R E R S ACTIVE

HONORARY PALLBEARERS

PALLBEARERS Carl Cage Jr. Terry Walker Jerry Walker Darrick Nichols Michael Nichols Jr. Traiveon Dunlap

Brian Dunlap Jalen Dunlap Andris L. Russaw Fred Nichols Michael Nichols Sr. Alvin T. Jackson Franklin Nichols

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