Obituary: Bertie Eastman gave birth to Mercedes Eastman on March 1, 1908 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She lived in Oklahoma her entire life. She married Fisher Mays in 1925 and gave birth to one son, Kenneth (who died at a very young age,) and three daughters Birdie D., Bobby, and Gloria. She started working at Tinker Air Force Base during World War II. Mercedes is among the first Black civilian woman hired by the military base. She retired in 1972 after 31 years of Federal Government service. Joined the Church of the Redeemer in 1992. She trimmed her own hedges and lived independently until she was 92 years old and her sight was taken from her. The rest of her years she lived with her daughter Birdie D. until she passed on her 101st birthday. Her love for independence and life was carried throughout her life. She will be deeply missed.