Bessie L. Owens

Bessie L. (Hill) Owens departed this life on Tuesday, (October 23, 2001) at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center. She was born to Mary Copeland and John Hill on March 1,1912 in Ellaville, GA. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, William Owens, Sr.; daughter, Grace Barfield; and grandson, Derek Sweet. She has been a faithful member of Bethel A.M.E. Church for the past 45 years and served as a Deaconess, Stewardess and a member of the choir. She leaves to mourn four daughters, Willie Mae Lindsey and husband, Hugh; Carrie Owens and Leila Sweet all of Hartford, and Yvonne Smith of East Hartford; three sons, James and wife, Gloria of Newington; William Jr. and Richard of Hartford; 20 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; and five great great grandchildren. She also leaves a devoted granddaughter, Marsha (Owens) Tolliver; two devoted nieces, Georgia Mae Zylanz and Mary Ann Norris; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral Services will be held Friday, October 26, 12 Noon at Bethel AME Church, 1154 Blue Hills Ave., Bloomfield, with calling hours, 11 a.m. Burial will be in Mountain View Cemetery, Bloomfield. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethel AME Church. FUQUA Funeral Service, 94 Granby St., Bloomfield has charge of arrangements.