Bernice E. Callis

Bernice Edward Callis, age 87, of Tipton, Mich., passed away at his home on Monday, March 10, 2025. He was born on March 9, 1938, in Columbia, Tenn., the son of the late Elgyan Elias and Birdie Mae (Forrister) Callis. On March 16, 1957, Bernie married Barbara Ann Baskins at the Plymouth Church of Christ in Plymouth, Mich., and they enjoyed nearly 68 years together. Bernie earned his bachelors degree from Siena Heights University and spent 15 years teaching in the Automotive Vocational Area at the Jackson Area Career Center before his retirement.

Bernie was a faithful member and elder of the Tecumseh Church of Christ since 1976, and served as a board member of God’s Bread Basket since its inception. He had a servant heart and a great desire to spread the Gospel to everyone. Bernie loved working and helping people whenever he could. Bernie was often referred to as the original “MacGyver” as he could build or repair most anything; from building his own home with his family, to repairing nearly anything broken from engines to appliances to electronics, and he loved to use those skills to help others.

In addition to his wife, Barbara, Bernie is survived by his two sons, Richard (Karen) Callis of Delaware, Ohio, and Matt (Pam) Callis of Onsted, Mich.; his adoptive daughter, Denise (Rich) Van Zandt of Tipton; his eight grandchildren, Kyle (Hollie) Callis, Cody (Vanessa) Callis, Tori (Jeremy) Bickley, Eli (Alana) Callis, Evan (Anastasia) Callis, Taylor Callis, Seth Callis, and Madison Callis; nine great-grandchildren; and a nephew, Tracy Callis, of Tipton.

Bernie was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Steve Callis; and five siblings.

A funeral service for Bernie will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 16 at the Tecumseh Church of Christ with Vince Gonzales officiating. Cremation will follow. Visitation will take place at the church on Saturday, March 15 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. and also 5-7 p.m. There will be an hour of visitation at the church beginning at 2 p.m. with the funeral service at 3 p.m. Memorial contributions in Bernie’s honor may be made to God’s Bread Basket. Online condolences may be made to the family at handlerfuneralhomes.com.