Bessie Martin Conner, 94, was born on June 25, 1930, and died on November 4, 2024. She was the sixth of 10 children born to her parents, William and Doris Conner of Gloucester Point. She was preceded in death by her parents and by her siblings, Bill, Byron, Mildred, Gene, Doris, and Stuart, and is survived by siblings, Patsy, Allmond (Susan) and Margaret. Bessie leaves behind a large family of nieces and nephews, sisters-in-law and many friends.

Bessie graduated from Achilles High School, Bridgewater College (Music Education), and Scarritt College (M.A. in Christian Education). Her early work career was as a music teacher at schools in Yorktown.

Bessie’s true calling was in work for the Methodist Church. Her earliest mission work was in Albuquerque, N.M., and later in Mississippi. In 1962, Bessie moved to Mississippi and began her long and dedicated service as a Methodist Deaconess with various churches in their music and Christian education programs. She later worked for the Methodist Conference in administrative roles. A highlight of that time for Bessie was running the summer camping program at Camp Lake Stephens near Oxford, Miss.

Bessie was blessed with a beautiful soprano voice and she often shared her musical gift at family weddings, funerals, and church events. She loved coming back to Virginia for summer visits and Christmas holidays. Family from Virginia made yearly trips to see her. Bessie did lovely needlework and many of her nieces and nephews have Christmas stockings and other handstitched items.

After retirement, Bessie remained in Mississippi for several more years at a retirement community in Tupelo. In 2014, she made the decision to return to Gloucester to be near family and friends.

In memory of Bessie, contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are being handled by Hogg Funeral Home. The memorial service will be held at Bethany United Methodist Church, Gloucester Point, on Tuesday, November 19, at 11 a.m. The inurnment will be private.