Bessie was born in Longview, TX, November 8, 1935, to the late Will and Alice Tippett Hurd Jr. Bessie was the fourth of five children. She was preceded in death by her parents, Will and Alice Hurd; brothers, Willie R. Hurd III, Babe Wayne Hurd, and Solomon Jacob Hurd.

Bessie began her education in Longview, TX, completing it in New York City.

Her work career consisted of many managerial positions in the field of health care at Mount Sinai Hospital and New York Medical Center. Bessie retired from Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield as a director in one of their divisions.

Immediately following her retirement, Bessie and her parents relocated to Richmond, VA, to be with their daughter and sister, Jean Braxton.

Bessie, like her siblings, was introduced to Jesus Christ at an early age. Mother Hurd made sure her children faithfully served their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The family were all members of Convent Avenue Baptist Church in Harlem. Bessie later joined a church in Brooklyn, NY where she held several positions. When the family arrived in Richmond, Jean introduced them to the Pilgrim Journey Baptist Church where they later joined. They felt at home at Pilgrim Journey because Jean served for many years as Director of the Senior Choir.

Upon joining Pilgrim Journey, Bessie became active. She served faithfully until her health declined as Financial Secretary, Deacon and as a member of the scholarship committee. Earlier this year, Bessie was elevated to the status of Deacon Emeritus and given a plaque commemorating this milestone.

Bessie loved the Lord and one of her favorite activities was attending the Hampton Ministers Conference each year with Jean. Over the years Bessie and Jean attended many other conferences enjoying the preached Word and musical concerts. She especially enjoyed hearing cousin Joseph Fleming, Pastor of the Third Baptist Church in Portsmouth, VA, preach, and attending workshops conducted by Dr. Penni Sweentenburg-Lee. Bessie loved Sunday brunch with Pastor Chatmon and Deacon Shirley Knight, one of her best friends. Oftentimes Jean would show up uninvited and crash the party. Bessie loved Pastor Chatmon and her Pilgrim Journey family!

Bessie also enjoyed shopping with her mom and Jean every Saturday. During the week, her favorite pastime was shopping with her best friend, Linda Lucas. Bessie and Jean were blessed to take many trips around the country.

Bessie was especially blessed to have her son, Lee care for her the last few months.

Bessie leaves to cherish her memory her son, Lee Brent; sister, Rev. Jean Braxton; sister-in-law, Hattie Hurd; a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, a dedicated and faithful best friend, Linda Lucas; neighbors, Wayne and Tonya Smith; and a helper, Gloria Cook.