Bess York Driskell was born at home on her family farm near Atmore, Alabama on May 11, 1921. She passed away in Greenville, SC, where she had been living with her daughter, Helen, and family, on Wednesday March 13, 2019. She was preceded in death and welcomed home by her beloved husband of 68 years, Bertran N. Driskell. She is also preceded in death by her parents Calvin, known as Dom, and Maud Ardis York, brother J.D., sisters Suzie (Percy Ligon), Mary (Maurice Poiroux), Lena Pearl (Bobby Watson), and Maud Cinderella York Sinclair, and special nephew Buddy York (Betty).
She is survived by her brother, Max York (Rochelle), sons, Boyce (Susan) and J. Dale (Paula); daughter, Helen (Marc Chetta); and daughter-in-spirit, Jennette (Ronald Poiroux) . She was also blessed with 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends.
Granny Bess spent many years as a devoted pastor's wife and mother. In addition, she worked as a notions clerk, a bus driver, and a tireless seamstress, creating several Azalea Trail gowns. She was a champion of the underdog and enriched countless lives as she fought beside them for a better life. She served God's purpose for her life in her generation.
Granny Bess will be greatly missed by the many whose lives have been enriched by her lively Christian spirit. Visitation will be held at Palestine Missionary Baptist Church on Saturday, March 30, 2019, at 3:00 p.m. Funeral services at the church will follow at 4:00 p.m. immediately after visitation. Interment will be in Palestine Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Palestine Church Sunday School Fund, Palestine Rd., Wilmer, AL 36587, would be appreciated.
