A Visit with Bertha: A Prelude 

Bertha is a familiar and much-beloved presence at Heart, Love & Soul. She visits often, bringing warmth, quick wit, and her famous handcart through our front doors to enthusiastic greetings. Several weeks ago, she returned for a special visit with our Marketing Manager, Michael, taking time to share some candy and to tell stories, reflections, and memories from her long history with our community. Their conversation captured the essence of Bertha’s life—a life seasoned with love and a generosity that leaves a lasting impression.

Bertha: A Life Seasoned with Love

Bertha’s story is one of love, resilience, and devotion—a story that has left an indelible mark on our community. Born in Alabama and raised in Buffalo, she grew up in a large family where her mother, also named Bertha (though she wished her middle name, Olivia, had been her first), instilled in her not only the art of cooking but also the delicate balance of love and discipline that would guide her throughout life. As one of eighteen children, Bertha learned early the intricacies of feeding many mouths with patience, care, and heart—a skill she has carried into her work at Heart, Love & Soul.

A mother of four—three sons and a daughter—Bertha is affectionately known by many in the community simply as “Mama.” She first came to Heart, Love & Soul for lunch after her husband passed, one day in 1994. It was there she met Sister Barbara and our extraordinary staff and quickly became a cherished regular. Her warmth, generosity, and dedication naturally led her from volunteer to a paid role in our kitchen, where she became renowned for her culinary talents.

When asked about her favorite dishes to prepare, Bertha said it is always whatever brings joy to our guests—but her secret was a little love and meticulous seasoning. She tastes, adjusts, tastes again—until the flavors are perfectly balanced—and much of it comes from instinct honed over years of experience. Among her most celebrated dishes, her creamy mac and cheese stands out as a signature dish that is still fondly remembered today. (See the 2020 photograph of Bertha with her famous mac and cheese above.)

Bertha’s approach to cooking reflects her broader philosophy of life: nurturing, attentive, and grounded in love, with just enough firmness when necessary. She treats our guests as her own children, offering guidance, support, and care with the same devotion she extended to her own family.

A walk through the neighborhood with Bertha is a testament to the profound impact she has had on those around her. Everywhere she goes, people stop to greet her warmly, exchange hugs, and offer assistance getting her where she’s going. It is clear she is respected and admired—a testament to years of kindness given freely.

Having faced medical challenges in her youth, Bertha regards life as a precious gift from God—a chance to love, nurture, and leave a meaningful impact with every interaction. She has learned the power of pausing before speaking, ensuring her words are delivered with thoughtfulness, kindness, and grace, recognizing that sometimes her love may be the only source of light in someone’s day.

Now in her eighties, Bertha finds joy in babysitting her great-granddaughter, Nova, who keeps her energetic and engaged. Even in her well-earned moments of rest, she spreads joy in the smallest of ways—like sharing peanut M&Ms with Michael after a day of babysitting.

In caring for others, Bertha has quietly raised a community, one act of love at a time. It reminds us that even the smallest gestures, seasoned with care and intention, can nourish the heart as profoundly as they nourish the body. At Heart, Love & Soul, we are grateful every day for Bertha and the immeasurable love she shares with our community, and we are blessed by every visit she makes.