Berta Elaine Prindle

Born on May 4, 1945, in Oklahoma City to Margaret Cordelia (Rogers) Kelley, Berta's family moved to Texas when she was two years old. A long-time resident of the state, Texas remained the place closest to her heart, even though she spent her final years in California.

Berta grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, where she graduated from Eastern Hills High School in 1963. In November of that same year, she married Jim D. Prindle Sr., and together they had three children: JD, René, and Sherry. After their divorce in 1973, Berta chose to dedicate her life to raising her children as a loving, single mom, always putting their needs first and giving everything she had to their well-being.

Berta was a loyal and hard-working employee at Alcon Laboratories in Fort Worth, where she retired after 30 years of service. Even after retirement, she kept strong, lasting friendships with her Alcon colleagues, many of whom remained a part of her life. Never one to sit idle, she later took a job at Lowe’s in Allen, where she could indulge her passion for DIY projects and interior decorating—skills she had perfected over a lifetime of creativity and resourcefulness.

Berta's talents extended far beyond her career. She began sewing at the age of four taught by her paternal Mamaw, Leona M. (Woodall) Smith, with whom she maintained a very special relationship. By the time she was a young girl, she was already making her own clothes for school—an early indication of her remarkable creativity and skill. Over the years, Berta became an exceptional seamstress, known for her ability to turn any fabric into something beautiful. Whether it was a carefully stitched prom/bridesmaid dress, a cozy quilt, or a thoughtful handmade gift, Berta's hands created everything with love and purpose. Berta’s eye for design was evident in every part of her life. Her home in Allen, Texas, was a true reflection of her talent, always beautiful, welcoming, and thoughtfully arranged. Her southern cooking skills, also taught by “Mamaw,” were equally impressive as she filled her home with the delicious aromas of home-cooked meals, bringing comfort and joy to her family and friends.

Berta always found ways to make something from nothing; she had a unique ability to stretch every dollar while making her home a place of warmth and beauty. She worked tirelessly to ensure her children had everything they needed, often sacrificing her own desires to provide for them. Above all, Berta was the best mom in the world—selfless, loving, and unwavering in her devotion. Her children were the center of her world, and her love for them was boundless.

She was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer, in 2014 and had a stem cell transplant in 2015. She was a warrior. She endured so many treatments, hospitalizations, and procedures and she always surprised the doctors by how well she was doing. After several years of battling myeloma, she moved to Lancaster, California, where she was lovingly cared for by her devoted daughter, René. She fought the disease with grace and dignity, never feeling sorry for herself. Even after myeloma caused kidney failure requiring dialysis, she always kept her beautiful smile on her face. Despite her struggles, Berta never lost her spirit and remained a source of love and strength for her family.

Berta was a proud and doting Grandma to seven grandchildren—Savannah, Avery, Beck, Brandon, Lauren, Olivia, and Harper—whom she adored with all her heart. She found so much joy watching them grow and celebrating their accomplishments, always ready with a kind word or a loving hug. Her pride in her grandchildren was limitless, and her presence in their lives was a gift they will treasure forever.

Berta also cherished the time she spent with her boyfriend, David Aitcheson. They first started dating 40 years ago while working together at Alcon, and after a time apart, they reconnected nine years ago. Their renewed bond brought Berta immense joy, and she loved him very much. Together, they created new memories, and their relationship was filled with warmth, laughter, and affection.

Berta also had a deep love for the simple joys in life. Her heart was full of fondness for the things that brought her peace and happiness. The beach was her sanctuary, where the sound of the waves and the feel of the sand beneath her feet always left her feeling renewed. She also loved gardening and was able to make her outdoor spaces so beautiful. Berta’s love for animals was equally profound. She found comfort in the company of her beloved dog, Cali, and her cat, Little Kitty. Whether they were curled up at her feet or playfully roaming around her home, they provided her with unconditional love and companionship, making her feel grounded and cherished. Both Cali and Little Kitty were more than just pets—they were family, always by her side, offering her comfort, loyalty, and joy.

She raised her children in the Methodist church, where she found peace and spiritual guidance. For the past 15 years, she was a member of Sun Creek United Methodist Church, and though her health kept her from regular attendance, her heart remained firmly rooted in her relationship with Christ. She knew without a doubt that Jesus was her Savior, and in her final moments, she was ready to go Home, trusting fully in God’s eternal love and promise.

Berta gave so much to her family, and that devotion was abundantly returned by her children and grandchildren, who adored her deeply. Her legacy of creativity, generosity, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. The memories she created, her abiding faith, and the love she shared will stay with her family for the rest of their lives, continuing through future generations of her descendants—a legacy she may not have seen, but one that will endure because of her. Berta’s deep commitment to her family, her passion for life, and her unwavering strength will never be forgotten.

Left to cherish her memory are: her son JD (Lisa) Prindle; daughter René (Glenn) Watson; daughter Sherry (Curtis) Miyazono; her grandchildren: Beck Prindle; Savannah Watson (Scott) Bell, Avery Watson; and Brandon, Lauren, Olivia, and Harper Miyazono; and nephew Kamilo Cruz.

Reunited in heaven with her are her mother, Margaret C. Kelley, and her granddaughter, Madison Watson.

A visitation for Berta will be held Sunday, January 12, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Moore Funeral Home, 1219 North Davis Drive, Arlington, TX 76012.

A funeral service will occur Monday, January 13, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 1219 North Davis Drive, Arlington, TX 76012.

A committal service will occur Monday, January 13, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at Moore Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 1219 N Davis Dr, Arlington, TX 76012.

The staff at Moore Funeral Home encourages family and friends to express their fond memories, expressions of sympathy and additional condolences to the family of Berta Elaine Prindle, by visiting www.moore-funeralhome.com.

In addition, if you or someone you know wish to send a floral condolence to the Prindle family in honor of the late Berta Elaine Prindle, you may choose to do so by calling In Bloom Flowers and Gifts at (972)-256-6637.