Bessie Mae Leavelle

Mrs. Bessie M. Leavelle, beloved mother of Thomas Coleman and the late Arnita Coleman was called from labor to peaceful rest at the age of 79 on May 1, 2025. A woman of unwavering faith and love of life.
A longtime resident of Clarksville, TN, Bessie was born on September 23, 1945, to the late Elmo and Rosie Nell White in Christian County. She was proceeded in death by her loving daughter Arnita D. Coleman and her sisters Emma L. Harrell and Eleanor Alexander.
Diagnosed with cancer over 20 years ago, anchored by her strong faith, Bessie lived a full life that was centered on faith and family. Though cancer altered her facial features and often challenged her physically, it never defined her. She defied cancer with her fierce determination to live an abundant, joyful life, and chose to live every day with hope and a grateful heart, often quipping, "today is a great day because I am alive".
As the beloved family matriarch, Bessie was the heart of the family and the glue that held us together-offering wisdom, encouragement, and yes, the firm reprimands only a mother and big sister could deliver, as she advised us on what she would do "if it was me." Whether hosting in her occupation at El Palacio and O'Charley's or in her own kitchen, she found joy in serving others, happiest when her home was filled with loved ones enjoying her signature dishes and cakes.
A devoted member of Fifth Ward Baptist Church, Bessie served faithfully in many ministries. But it was her powerful alto voice in the choir- that best reflected the source of her strength-a soulful reminder that no matter the struggle "God Is" more than enough.
Bessie was an inspiration to countless others. Her legacy will continue to live on in the family that she guided, the friendships that she cherished and the countless others that she inspired with her resilience as well as her impeccable appearance.
She will be missed beyond measure by her son, Thomas D. (Stephanie) Coleman, her two grandchildren Landon & Demetrius and her siblings: Ebonye (Afrikahn)Dayvs, Brenda (Roland) Bailey, Moses White, Walter (Shirley) White, Dottie (Johnny) Boggs, Oray Taylor, Bernis (Kathy) White, Rosemary (Byron) Miller, Roseanna Beddingfield, Mildred Smith, Jordan Arness White, Lovoria (Eldridge) Williams. Her memory will forever be cherished by a host of nieces, nephews, dear friends and the Fifth Ward church family.
A celebration of Bessie's joyful life will be held on May 6, 2025 at Fifth Ward Baptist Church 900 Franklin Street Clarksville, TN.
Though no longer with us, Bessie lives on in every life she touched, leaving a legacy of strength, perseverance, and unwavering faith.