Bessie Bell Chestnutt

Bessie Bell Chestnutt, 80, of Hannibal, MO, passed away at 9:13 PM, Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Sarah's Place in Hannibal, MO. Funeral Services will be at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at James O'Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal, MO. Rev. Stephanie Himmel will officiate. Burial will be at Beardstown City Cemetery in Beardstown, IL. Friends and Family are invited to Bessie's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday, June 17, 2025,at the funeral home. Bessie was born May 28, 1945, in Rushville, IL to David Stambaugh and Velvia Jennings Stambaugh. She was married to George Franklin Chestnutt Jr. He preceded her in death on August 18, 1989. Survivors include her two daughters, Wanda Chestnutt and Pamela Chestnutt, both of Hannibal, MO; one brother, David Stambaugh (June) of Moline, IL; one sister, Connie Durrell of Beardstown, IL; one son-in-law, Teddy Elzea; nine grandchildren; several great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Bessie was preceded in death by her parents; two daughters, Marsha Fogle and Becky Elzea; four brothers and sisters; and son-in-law, Dean Elzea. Bessie worked as a caregiver in area nursing homes, a cook, and a housekeeper for many years. Bessie enjoyed knitting, doing crossword puzzles, coloring, and putting together jigsaw puzzles. Another one of Bessie's favorite past times was watching old westerns, especially Walker Texas Ranger and Gun Smoke. Bessie loved to bake homemade bread and made the best liver and onions. Most of all, Bessie cherished the time spent with her family. Pallbearers will be Zach Chestnutt, Joe Elzea, Bobby Elzea, George Chestnutt, Brandon Chestnutt, James Majors, and Tanner Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Braden Chestnutt, Colton Chestnutt, Joe Elzea, Landon Elzea, and Gavin Rickey. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bessie, please visit our floral store.