Anita and Bernita were born on November 20, 1955, in Alma, Georgia, to George and Gladys Kennerly. They attended Alma Elementary School, the segregated school for black children in Bacon County, Georgia.

In September 1967, Anita and Bernita made history when they became the first black students to integrate Bacon County Primary School, which had previously been a whites-only school. By January 1968, all other black students from the community followed, and Bacon County Primary School became fully integrated.

As adults, Anita and Bernita continued their commitment to service and leadership within their communities. Bernita proudly served in the U.S. Army. Her commitment to service continued through a career in education, where she became a teacher and later served as a city council member. Anita pursued a career in public service, holding various leadership roles, including Chief Probation Officer, work in restorative justice, and contributions to the public school system. Through their professional work and civic involvement, both sisters have remained dedicated to serving and uplifting their community.

Their lives reflect how early courage can grow into a lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and making a lasting difference for future generations.