Bessie Austin

Bessie M. Austin, 94 of Ventura, CA died July 7, 2008 in Ventura, California. She was born on October 7, 1913 in Harris New Mexico, the eldest daughter of Henry and Mary (Drake) Rhone. The family made their home in Oklahoma and Texas, before settling in Ft Sumner NM. Bessie graduated from Ft. Sumner High School with the class of 1932. She enjoyed spending time with her Uncle Ward Drake and his family in La Lande, NM. In 1934 their mother moved the family to Pasadena, Ca where Bessie attended Beauty School. She worked as a cosmetologist in Pasadena and Ventura. Bessie was an active member of the Ventura Nazarene Church, where she served as a board member, Sunday school teacher and was a blessing to the little ones in the Nursery. Bessie was preceded in death by her husband Leonard; brothers Bill, Lloyd and Winfred; brother-in-law Jimmy Austin; stepson Danny and grandson Roger. She is survived by her son Larry of California; daughter Janet of Nevada; stepson Jack; sister Birdie; 9 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and many friends. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 PM Monday, July 14, 2008 from Hassell Community Cemetery, Hassell, NM. Local arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home in Fort Sumner, NM. (575) 355-2311. To place an online tribute or sign the guest book please visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com .