Bessie Lucille (Helm) Priester

Bessie Lucille Priester, 90, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away Wednesday, July 23, 2024, in Burbank, MO. She was born December 23, 1933, in Shook, MO, to parents Herman Guy and Velma T (Shrum) Helm.

Bessie was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She married Eugene Priester Jr., July 5, 1961, and they were blessed with two sons. Bessie was a nurturing homemaker. She enjoyed traveling when she was younger. Her favorite places were in the Smoky Mountains area. She was a Jehovah Witness for many years and very active in her church. She truly enjoyed sharing the good news of God’s Kingdom. Entertaining and cooking for others brought Bessie great joy. She was a wonderful hostess. Bessie was very wise, generous, a good listener, and would give to anyone in need. She was a mother to everyone. Bessie knew a good deal when she saw one and enjoyed going to yard sales.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her loving husband of twenty-two years; granddaughter: Andrea Boekemier; brothers: Willie, Junior, and James “Jim” Helm; sister: Mary Webb.

Bessie is survived by her sons: Gary Priester and wife Melyssa of Fredericktown, Michael Priester of St. Louis; grandson: Matthew Priester and wife Brandi of Fredericktown; five great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; sister: Dorothy Tipton, Ella Mae Thornburg, and Lois Upchurch all of Greenville; and a host nieces, nephews, and friends. Bessie will be greatly missed. 

Visitation was held from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm, Sunday, July 28, 2024, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Greenville Chapel. Funeral service followed at 2:00 pm, Monday, July 29, 2024, also at the Greenville Chapel. Speaker Jearl Griffin ministered to the family and Gary Priester, London Priester, Matthew Priester, Sonny Noland, Lonnie Miller, Rich Shoemake Sr, and Rich Shoemake Jr. served as pallbearers. Burial was at Crossroads Cemetery, Greenville, MO.  Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

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