Carol Elizabeth Bess

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Carol Elizabeth Bess, beloved mother, sister, and cherished friend, who departed this life on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on Thursday, June 18, 1942, in DeSoto, Missouri to the late Milburn and Mildred (Huskey) Wilkinson. 

Carol dedicated her life to her family. She graduated from De Soto High School in 1960 and married the love of her life, Wilford Bess, on June 4 of the same year. Together, they built a beautiful family that included her two beloved sons, Gordan and Jamie. Carol's heart knew no bounds as she took joy in raising her boys, instilling in them the values of kindness and hard work.

She spent her earlier years working in dietary services and housekeeping at Bonne Terre Hospital. Then, later head of housekeeping at Super 8 Motel. Carol took pride in her work, nurturing others in her community through her service and care.

 A true lover of nature and simple joys, Carol relished riding her golf cart, tending to her cherished animals—especially her chickens—and creating a loving home for her two cats, Willow and Claire. Her life on the farm mirrored her nurturing spirit, and she found great pleasure in her membership with the Garden Club, where she cultivated not just plants but lasting friendships.

 In her younger years, Carol enjoyed horseback riding with her dad and sisters. Later years brought a love for ceramics and painting. The beauty of creativity and adventure was often caught in her beautiful paintings. However, the greatest joy in her life was her family, particularly her grandchildren, who filled her heart with boundless love and pride.

Carol is survived by her devoted sons, Gordon (Shelly) Bess Jamie (Jayne) Bess; grandchildren, Andy (Jessica) Bess, Amanda (Rick) Peterson, Bradley (Bailey) Bess and Whitney Bess; 15 Great-grandchildren; siblings, Ellen Sickler and Mary Lee (Roy) Joedicke; five sister in-laws, Bert Burch; Karen Burr, Pat Wilkinson, Maxine Lanham and Sally Bess; along with several nieces, nephews and friends. The love she shared will always remain a guiding light in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

 Funeral services will be held on January 7, 2026, where family and friends will gather to celebrate Carol's remarkable life and share cherished memories. As we lay her to rest, we remember her not only for her love and kindness but for the indelible mark she left on our lives.

 May her spirit soar, free from earthly bounds, as we carry her memory in our hearts forever.

 Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Milburn and Mildred (Huskey)Wilkinson; her loving husband Wilford Bess; brother, Mikael Wilkinson; along with several brother in-laws and sister in-laws.

Visitation will be held at C. Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m., with Pastor Randy Murphy officiating. Burial will follow at Bess Family Cemetery in Bonne Terre.

In lieu of flowers, family would like donations to be made to Farmington Pet Adoption Center.