She was originally from Vicksburg, Mississippi. Bessie worked as a supervisor for Fair Lodge Nursing Home and a psychiatric assistant at University Hospital.
She loved spending time with her family, and enjoyed hobbies such as fishing, and preparing large meals for the holidays.
Bessie is preceded in death by her children, Vernita Johnson, Bruce Johnson; brother Ralph Davis; Granddaughter, Valerie Preston; and partner of 53 years, Willie (Bill) Wilson. She is survived by her children, Marva Johnson of Houston, Texas, Essie Johnson of Columbus, Ohio, Isaac Johnson of Arlington, Virginia, David Johnson, Eva Shaw, and Jerry Johnson of Louisville, Kentucky; 6 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends.
A funeral service to celebrate Bessie's life will be conducted at 11 am on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 in the chapel of Arch L. Heady - Cralle Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Green Meadows Memorial Cemetery, 3800 Shanks Lane. Guests are invited to attend a visitation from 10am until service time Wednesday.