Nova Bernice Hopson Waites, 94, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. She attended Gethsemane Church for many years of her life. Coming from a musical family, she developed a beautiful alto voice, which she loved using in church and in her home. Bernice also used her baking skills as a means to reach out to others and as a show of kindness. Many have enjoyed the deliciousness of her famous Butterscotch pies and her other baked goods. Family and friends remember her for her sense of humor, and her eagerness to share whatever culinary dish she had available.

Bernice is survived by four children, sons, Vaughn Reaves of Johnson City, Sammy Reaves of Greeneville; daughters, Sheila Carter and husband, Terry of Greeneville, Priscilla Dicus of Greeneville; grandchildren, Cheyenne Thompson and husband Rocky, Jarrod Carter, Adam King and wife, Alexis, Isaac Bouthillette; granddaughter-in-law, Lora Reaves; seven great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Gene and Betty Hopson; sister-in-law, Pauline Hopson; several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Everette Waites; two grandsons, Kurt Waites and Colt Reaves; parents, Burnie and Lena Hopson; siblings and their spouses, Hugh and Betty Hopson, Gordon and Edith Hopson, Dennis and Joyce Hopson, Raven and Retha Hopson, Duard and Barbara Hopson; an infant sister.

The family expresses their heartfelt appreciation to special friends and caregivers: Denise Keller, Crystal Lindsey, Eric Goodell, Melissa Brittingham, Summer Martinez, Sandy Lowe, and so many others who have shown so much love and concern.

Upon Bernice’s wishes, she will be cremated with no formal visitation. A Spring burial will be arranged at a later date.