Bessie Thornton

Bessie L. Thornton, 87, of Fort Dodge passed away Tuesday. January 4, 2022 at the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home. A memorial service will be 11:00 AM Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at Laufersweiler Funeral Home. A visitation will be 9:00 AM until the start of the service at the funeral home. Bessie is survived by her children, Wanda Thornton and Suzie Thornton both of Fort Dodge and Willie (Michelle) Thornton of West Des Moines; grandchildren, Brittany (Jake) Menn of Denver, CO, Sierra (Ben) Feltes, Trajen Thornton and Sydnee Thornton all of West Des Moines; great-grandchildren, Myles Menn and Tatum Feltes and grand puppies, Coco and Harlow. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry German and Mamie L. Reed; sister, Aretha Ware and brother, Tom Taylor. Bessie L. Reed was born June 21, 1934 in Jackson, MS. She attended area schools and graduated from Durant High School. Bessie moved to Fort Dodge in 1957 and established her home. She worked for Urban Ministries until her retirement in 1999. She was a member of Coppin Chapel. She enjoyed dancing and music and was known for her "gift of gab". Bessie also took great pride in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Memorials may be left to family discretion. Visitation Wed, Jan 12, 2022 at 9:00 am - 11:00 am Laufersweiler-Sievers Funeral Home 307 South 12th Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501 Funeral Wed, Jan 12, 2022 at 11:00 am Laufersweiler-Sievers Funeral Home 307 South 12th Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501