Bessie Harrell James, 90, of Dunn and formerly of Pender County went home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, August 23, 2016 at Cornerstone Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dunn.

She was born December 10, 1925 in Pender County, the daughter of the late Benjamin F. Harrell, Sr. and Helen Wells Harrell. Also preceding Bessie in death was her husband, David Carl James; daughter Kay T. Dorman; one grandson; brothers, Douglas and Linwwod Harrell; two half-brothers and one half-sister.

Bessie is survived by her son, David Franklin James of Dunn; daughter, Carolyn T. Flynn of Jacksonville; nine grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and friends.

Bessie was a longtime faithful member of Cora's Grove PFWB Church. She was adored by her family and friends and will be remembered for her courage, her energy, her cooking skills, sweet spirit, and thoughtfulness of others. It must be mentioned that Bessie's chicken and pastry, collards and peach cobbler were absolutely the best one has ever eaten. Most of all Bessie was a Godly woman with a sharing spirit.

The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 27, 2016 at Cora's Grove Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church with funeral service at 11:00 a.m. The Rev. Baris Lanier and The Rev. Gary Wayne Meeks will conduct the service. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park.

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