Edith Sue Felts Bessinger

Published 6:00 am Friday, July 5, 2024

BOWLING GREEN – Edith Sue Felts Bessinger, beloved mother, wife and sister, passed away on July 1, 2024 in her hometown of Bowling Green, Kentucky at the age of 84 following a brief illness.

Born to Minnie Martha and James Oliver Felts on May 7, 1940, Edith’s life was a tapestry of love for her family, education and serving her community. Edith’s journey began on a small farm in the Rockfield community, where she grew up with her siblings and was a member of White Stone Quarry Baptist Church. Her childhood was filled with the hard work of South Central Kentucky farm life, a strong foundation in her Christian faith, and a love of reading, which all served to inform the foundation for her nurturing spirit.

After graduating from Warren County High School in 1958, she pursued her passion for elementary education at Western Kentucky University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1962. She also completed a Master’s degree in Education and obtained her Rank 1.

In 1963, Edith’s heart found its counterpart in Delbert Leo Bessinger. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love as they embarked on their journey as soulmates. Together, they raised two children, Scott and Kellye, and welcomed 5 wonderful grandchildren who were Edith’s pride and joy.

For over 40 years, Edith shaped young minds as a beloved teacher at Cumberland Trace Elementary and The Bowling Green Christian Academy. Her passion for primary education was exemplified in her dedication to early childhood literacy and mathematics, leaving an indelible mark on countless students. Her legacy in education is as enduring as the knowledge she imparted.

Edith’s life outside the classroom was devoted to her family. Whether she was supporting her children’s and grandchildren’s endless band concerts or sporting events, or preparing a favorite recipe, it was done with love and devotion. She was an avid reader and enjoyed crossword puzzles. Her children and grandchildren will forever cherish Edith’s stories and comforting words.

She is predeceased by her husband, Delbert; her parents; and, siblings Earl Felts, Bill Felts, Cyrus Felts, Marie Shew, Elsie Berryhill, Fred Felts and Mary Rose Watts.

She is survived by her son, Scott Bessinger, his sons Zachary Bessinger (Hannah) and Garrett Bessinger, and his daughter Ashley Keown (Seth); and her daughter, Kellye Joiner, husband Jesse and their daughters Lindsey and Sarah Caroline. She is also survived by her sister, Nina Shenton, 5 great grandchildren (Finn McCrory, Lyla Keown, Maxwell Bessinger, Zoe Halcomb, Tucker Halcomb), and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services are scheduled for 12:15 p.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024 at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. Saturday at Johnson Vaughn Phelps Funeral Home.