Bertha Pannel Mynes

Bertha Lee Pannel Mynes, 77, of Sherando, Virginia, entered into heavenly rest on Monday, May 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 22, 1947, in Waynesboro and spent her entire life in the close-knit community of Sherando.

Bertha was a lady of unwavering faith, boundless love, and deep devotion to her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 46 years, George Mynes; her precious mother, Mary “Lottie” Pannel; and her dear grandson, Michael Scott Phillips.

She is survived by her devoted daughters, Rhonda (Mike) Delicath and Fonda (John) Hamric; much-loved grandchildren Crista Phillips and Austin Hamric; and great granddaughter Serenity Hamric. Her grandchildren and great granddaughter were truly the light in her life. Also surviving is her beloved brother, Alton Pannel, with whom she shared a lifelong, deeply special bond full of love, encouragement, and unshakable support. She was also cherished by her special nieces and nephew—Betty (Chris) Guyer, Mary (Lee Wells) Pannel, and Jacob Pannel—as well as special nephews who visited faithfully, Ronnie and Dale Phillips. Her extended family also includes many other beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Among the most treasured relationships in Bertha’s life was the one she shared with her “sister cousin” and lifelong friend, Juanita Cash. She also held close many dear friends who walked beside her through the seasons of life.

Bertha began her working life as a teenager, cultivating a strong work ethic that carried her through careers at Virginia Panel, Morton’s, and Crompton. Her most cherished roles were the 21 years she spent at Sharon Bookstore and the 15 years at Cracker Barrel, where her warmth and joyful spirit left a lasting impact on customers and coworkers alike. The friendships she formed through her professional life remained lifelong treasures.

Above all, Bertha loved Jesus. A faithful prayer warrior and devoted witness, she was always ready to encourage, offer a prayer, and share her faith with others. While her absence leaves a deep ache in our hearts, her enduring legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will continue to live on in all whose lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Sherando Community Church with Pastors John Hamric, Chris Guyer, and Bill Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jacob Pannel, Lee Wells, Tony Cash, Ronnie Phillips, Dale Phillips, Tommy Mynes, Eric Pendleton, and Gary Underwood.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 5–7 p.m. at Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes, 618 W. Main Street, Waynesboro.

With heartfelt gratitude, the family extends sincere appreciation to the staff of Augusta Health and to Sandy Hoy (Bertha’s caretaker and friend) for their loving care of Bertha and her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bertha’s memory to Advancing Native Missions (https://advancingnativemissions.com/) or to ClearView Church, 9 Old Cottonwood Lane, Fishersville, VA 22939.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes of Waynesboro.

Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com