Date of Death: February 20, 2021

Service Details

Visitation will be held Friday, February 26, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at Hohner Funeral Home, 1004 Arnold St., Three Rivers. A service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Jamey Smith officiating. She will be laid to rest in Moorepark Cemetery.

Obituary Notice

Jessie Lee Bessinger, 82, of Three Rivers, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2021 at Rose Arbor Hospice.

She was born November 12, 1938 in Three Rivers, the daughter of the late Donald and Opal (Dentler) Goldsmith.

Jessie attended Three Rivers High School, and after her children were raised, graduated from beauty school. She worked more than 40 years as a hairstylist at Ethel’s.

On September 3, 1960, she married Max E. Bessinger. The couple loved dancing at the Moose Lodge, trailer camping in northern Michigan, and spending time at their timeshare in Tennessee.

Jessie had a big heart, willing to help anyone. Family was her hobby, but she also enjoyed league bowling, reading, listening to country music, and mentoring young children.

Remaining to cherish her memory are her children, LaMar Bessinger, Scott Smith, Jeff (Jan) Smith, Tamara (John) McGlothlen-McNeal, and Renee (Jim) Heller; four grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a sister, Joyce Stutzman.

Jessie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Max Bessinger, and a sister, Belva Draime.

Additional Information

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Three Rivers Hospice or St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Envelopes are available at the funeral home in care of Jessie’s arrangements.

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8 Comments

  1. LaMar, Scott & family,
    Miss Jessie was such a kind true lady.
    She will be missed.
    Our prayers are with you.
    David & Denise (Middaugh) Miller

  2. My heart stopped when I saw this. My mom’s best friend. Max & Jessie were a big part of my childhood. They went on vacation with us. I remember the trips up north to White Cloud. They spent time at our house, and us at their. It is almost like losing another mom to me. It is with sincere condolences to the family. My memories are so happy from knowing them both. It has been years since seeing them, as my parents have been gone and I do not live local – but the memories will always be a part of mine. LaMar, Scott, Jeff, Tammy and Renee – you are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time. I can’t make it back for service on Friday, please know I will be there in heart.

  3. My name is Linda Tabbert. It was my great privilege to get to know Jesse several years ago. I was a Hospice volunteer. She was so kind, energetic & just a very lovely gal. Truly, Max & your family were her greatest joy. Sparky too.
    I am so sorry for your loss. I will pray for comfort…

  4. So very sorry that Jessie has passed away but know that she is now back with Max and they are on the dance floor once again. I have such wonderful memories of all the Bessinger/Smith clan. Jessie was my daytime mama back in the Mud Lake days. She was a very kind hearted person and I don’t think she ever met a stranger. Tammy, Renee, Lamar, Jeff and Scott—I have some wonderful memories of your mom and you all have many many more. RIP Jessie🙏❤️

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