Bessie Lois Ellis, 88 of Lebanon, died Tuesday, March 12, 2024, in Osage Beach.
She was born July 7, 1935, in Laclede County, Mo. to Elva and Cleda Nunn Williams.
Those preceding her in death include her parents; one daughter, Wanda Dibben; siblings, Woodrow Williams, Bobby Williams, Howard Williams, Lavern Williams, Edna Marie Williams and Kathryn Zimmerman; two grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and one great-great-grandchild.
Bessie was a devoted mother, putting the needs of her family first. She was a talented seamstress and enjoyed sewing. She enjoyed tending to her garden, both flowers and vegetables and watching her daily soap operas. However, the time spent and memories shared with her family is what she treasured most
She was a member of Goodwin Calvary. Most recently she had attended Wood Street Baptist Church as long as her health permitted.
Bessie is survived by five children, Donna Sue Ivy and her husband Jerald of Wichita, Kan., Connie Carlson of Springfield, Ralph Brown and his wife Kathy of Conway, Bobby Ellis and his wife Chris of Lebanon, and Tracy Ellis also of Lebanon; two brothers, Ed Williams and his wife Edna and Johnny Williams and his wife Barbara, all of Lebanon; seventeen grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 15, 2024, at Shadel’s Colonial Chapel with David Arnold officiating. Burial was in Goodwin Calvary Cemetery. Visitation was held at 9 a.m. on Friday at Shadel’s Colonial Chapel.
Memorials have been suggested to the family of Bessie Ellis to help with funeral expenses. Donations can be left at or mailed to Shadel’s Colonial Chapel, P.O. Box 948, Lebanon, Mo. 65536.
Arrangements are under the direction of Shadel’s Colonial Chapel of Lebanon.
Sign guest book at www.shadelscolonialchapel.com.
