Willie Bledsoe Berwick

Willie was born on October 4, 1954, in Eufaula, Alabama, to Dr. William Walton and Lou Iona Bledsoe. She graduated from the University of Alabama in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Education.

After deciding that teaching was not for her, she packed up her belongings and moved to Washington, D.C., to work in politics. It was there that she met her husband, BG (Ret.) Bruce Berwick, while serving as the Education Director for the White House Fellows.

After a decade in that world, Willie shifted careers again and became a registered nurse, working in the emergency department and in the operating suites—all while being, in Bruce's words, "the perfect army wife." She officially retired from hospital work when her daughter Katherine was born, but remained her family and friends' unofficial nurse and advocate until her passing.

Willie led a life of adventure. She lived in Panama City, Panama; Seoul, South Korea; and Bristol, England, making sure to take full advantage of every opportunity to travel. She loved new experiences, often packing itineraries full of activities from sunup to sundown—her daughter lovingly called her "the tourist from hell" on more than one occasion. She had a gift for finding local art, trying new foods, and seeking out remarkable wine.

Willie was a fierce champion for equity and equality, throwing herself into causes with vigor, fierceness, and compassion. She was a lifelong advocate for human rights, and that commitment never wavered.

Willie was tragically injured in January 2018, but she met every challenge that followed with courage and grace, inspiring her family and loved ones to do the same. She refused to let her injury slow her down or dim her bright light — she could frequently be found at Eastern Market or any thrift store within reach — and she never stopped fighting for the causes she believed in.

Willie leaves behind her beloved cat, Vincent; her devoted caretaker, Feli; the love of her life, Bruce; and her family, Katherine and Kelly, and countless friends. She will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery, where she proudly served as an Arlington Lady for twelve years.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Willie's name to causes championing human rights, equality, equity, and compassion.