Gail Arlene Bess

Gail Arlene Bess, born on April 8, 1943, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026. A proud graduate and active alumnus of Crestwood High School, Gail continued her education at Norfolk State University. She dedicated her career to the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, where she held various positions, including Nuclear Shipping Coordinator and Supply Systems Analyst, retiring after 39 years of service.

In retirement, Gail found joy working in Accounting at Stein Mart in Chesapeake, Virginia, where her love for people and shopping radiated. She actively volunteered with the Virginia Extension Agency, served on the 4-H Leadership Advisory Council, and as a competition judge and also volunteered her time at the Clerk of Courts office in Chesapeake.

A lover of festivals, art shows, museums, farmers' markets, and shopping, Gail cherished family outings and spent many joyful days at the beach or on Family Trips. Her passion for cooking and baking allowed her to share special recipes with friends and family, showcasing her love for others.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henderson and Rosa Gibson, and her brother, Lawrence Tyrone Gibson.

She leaves behind cherished memories with husband, Joseph Robert Bess; a brother, Dwight Gibson (Brenda); her daughters, Stephanie Wilson, Sheila Watford, Vickie Jackson and Tammie Vaught; son, Darryl Gibson (Sheneye); granddaughters, Tchara King, D'Chana Thomas (Alvin), T' Erica Gibson, Brianna Watford, Brittney Bess, Kendall Gibson; grandsons, Brandon Bess and Justin Watford; 12 great-grandchildren; Sisters-n-law, Nannie Mae Jackson, Vernell Fox, Annie Bess and Dorothy Gibson. Also, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends, including her shopping buddy and Best Friend, Janice Howard, and close friend, Saundra Hunter.

As we hold onto the many wonderful memories of Gail, we find comfort in knowing that God is our comforter and does all things well.