Bessie Smith Obituary

Bessie Della Smith

Bessie Della Smith, 85, of Fostoria, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Bridge Hospice, Findlay.

She was born Sept. 21, 1938, in Kansas, Ohio. She graduated in 1956 from Jackson Liberty. She married Walter Frederick "Fred" Smith on Nov. 3, 1956, at E.U.B. church in Kansas and he survives.

Bessie is also survived by two daughters, Elaine (Harry) Sands of West Palm Beach, Florida, and Carol (John) Pope of Shelbyville, Indiana; four grandsons, Andrew Justin (Kate) Distel of Arcadia, Kyle Jeffrey (Marc) Distel of West Palm Beach, Florida, Gunnar Alexander (Ashley) Pope of Russiaville, Indiana, and Colton John (Megan) Pope of Shelbyville, Indiana; and four great-grandchildren, Chase Distel of 29 Palms, California, Cora Distel of West Palm Beach, Florida, and Charlie Distel and Tony Costello, both of Arcadia.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Alice Elaine Wezinger; and parents, Glenn and Flo (Womeldorf) Shaull.

Bessie shared her life with many friends over the years, both human and four-legged. She was the owner and operator of Blue Ribbon Dog grooming for 18 years. The kitchen is where she loved to be and show her love, baking cakes for birthdays, graduations, and other events. Canning was also her passion, making the "Best tomato juice, peaches, corn relish, jams, and jellies" you've ever tasted. Bessie loved spring. She and Fred enjoyed many car rides to St. John's Dam down the Sandusky River, watching things green up and flowers bloom.

Bessie and the "kid mobile" could often be seen roaring down Countyline St. with a car full of grandkids headed to Dairy Queen or to K-Mart to buy a toy or two for their special day.

Most of all, Bessie loved Fred. 68 wonderful years of marriage with her favorite beau and her best friend. You are the answer to my dearest dreams, The treasure in the world I hold most dear. Because of all your sweet & thoughtful ways, my life is full of joy when you are near.

Bessie's wishes were for no services at this time.

Harrold-Floriana Funeral Home, Fostoria, is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials can be made to SPCA or Bridge Hospice.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hffh.net.