Bessie Irving Thurmond

God blessed the loving union of Jim Irving and Willie Mae Humphries Irving a fourth gift of life in the form of a lovely baby girl, March 16, 1931. This baby grew into an excellent young girl. Excelling academically in Post Oak Elementary and becoming the Valedictorian of her class in 1949 at North Chapel Hill.

Knowing her spiritual journey was as important as her education, Bessie became a baptized believer at 12 years old. She continued her walk with God throughout her life's journey. Attending the same church, Post Oak Baptist, Kilgore, Texas for 73 years. She enhanced her Christian walk by serving in many capacities including, BTU, Mission teacher, Sunday School teacher, Usher and Worship leader. Sister Thurmond was often called upon to be the keynote speaker on Women's Day programs in Kilgore and surrounding areas. In 1949, she met Rabon Thurmond Jr. during a concert at Post Oak. Two years later, they were united in holy matrimony on February 14, 1951. They were married for 57 years. This union was blessed with four daughters, twin daughters Linda and Cinda, Ellen and Shirley. We could not have been blessed with a better warm caring mother. She taught her girls to be respectful to others, love without expectations, and most importantly be aservant of God.

Sis. Thurmond was also a worker in her community. Before community out reach became popular, she would bring items from town previously ordered by the older ladies in the community. Community children always had a reliable ride with Mrs. Thurmond to the 60's record hops and other school activities. She was employed by three different cleaners, Brown Dirby, Wheeler's and Oil Capital before retiring after 48 years in the work force. Hallelujah, all praises to our Savior. She was called fro her earthly travel to go home to be with Him on December 25, 2016.

Preceding her in death were: husband Rabon Thurmond Jr., daughter Ellen Minor, parents Jim and Willie Mae Irving, sisters Alberta Williams and Wanda Irving,specialnieces Katie Stanford and Helen Mims.

Cherishing her loving memories: daughters, Cinda Boyd (Kenneth), Lewisville, TX; Linda Hicks, Dallas, TX; Shirley Thurmond, Houston, TX; brother: L.T. Irving (Bertha), Longview, TX; brother-in-law: John Thurmond (Joan), Dallas, TX; sister-in-law: Audrey Metter, Houston, TX; god-daughter: Marecia Strong; god-son: Thurmond Stanford; 11 grandchildren: Vermetra, Brandon, Autondria, LaToshia, Authea, Eric, Daphane, Tory, Lori, Jeremy and Kelli; 17 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great-grandchildren; special nieces: Yvonne Sheffield and Sandra Sheffield; one special nephew: David Williams (Linda); a host of other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.