Norfolk — Bertha Ann Benitez-Martinez, a long-time resident of the Norfolk area, died Friday the 7th of December at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY.

Born in 1936 in Havana, Cuba, Bertha received a Bachelor degree in legal studies from the University of Miami School of Law in 1963. 

Bertha was a mother to, 8 children and worked at various law firms in Miami, FL and Cisco, TX. In 1980 she opened her home to her three foster children whome she adopted as her own in 1985.

Bertha loved good food and socializing, enjoyed cooking for her family and spending time with the kids, and had a wonderful smile that could light up a room.

She is survived by her 6 kids, and several grandkids, all of whom live in the New York and Virginia area, and brought great joy to her later years.

Memorial gifts may be made through the family and the funeral home.

The Graves Funeral Services, Norfolk, has been entrusted with arrangements.