Bessie Thomas

Bessie Akins was born August 6, 1935, before midnight, proceeding her twin Jessie to Virginia Akins and Jimmy Carter in Starkville, Mississippi. Both parents proceeded her in death. Bessie received most of her education in Starkville, Mississippi. She enjoyed long walks and taking care of her children. Her other passions were love of cooking, being life of the party, making people laugh, and giving praises to GOD. She raised her children in the church while in the choir at Pure Gospel Temple. Bessie worshipped the Lord until the end at God’s People Sanctuary.

At the age of 16, Bessie came to St. Louis, Missouri with her older brother, Jake and siblings. Bessie met the love of her life, Leroy Thomas Sr and were married May 11, 1962. She stated they had a short courtship but a lifetime of love and laughter. She was a funny person who lit up the room with her humor. A devoted, amazing mother who reared 8 children with a lot of love and discipline
with the Lord’s help. As she states, “I’m a strong black woman.”

After 58 years of matrimony, her husband Leroy Sr proceded her in death who was God-fearing servant himself. Our mother lived a long and happy life-to God be the glory. She leaves to cherish her memories: children Leroy Thomas Jr, Machelle Thomas, Jerome (LaDonna) Thomas, Cynthia (Curtis) McClain, Victoria Thomas, Vickie Thomas, Alvin Thomas, and Richard Thomas; sisters Annie Bell Smoot, Ora Lee Akins, Ora Bell Akins; 18 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and host of nieces, cousins, small family that still reside in Starkville, and friends.

She is proceeded in death by her twin Jessie, brothers Jake Horne, R.L.Gillespie, and sister Mentoria.

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