Joanne Marie (Stimson) Bessey

Joanne Marie Bessey (nee Stimson) of Paw Paw, Michigan passed away at her residence on
Saturday, February 20, 2021.
She was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on August 19, 1937 to Alton and Alvena (Mulder)
Stimson. She married Boyd Thomas Bessey on February 6, 1957. Joanne and Tom had
celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary shortly before her death.
Joanne received her Bachelors degree in 1973 and her Masters of Education degree in 1982 from
Western Michigan University. She worked as an elementary school teacher for the Decatur
Public School System for over 20 years.
Joanne was a talented musician, and enjoyed playing the piano. In her youth, she played the
organ and sang in the choir at the First United Methodist Church in Kalamazoo. She was an avid
reader and enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family.
She is survived by her husband Tom, her son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Jeffrey and Anne Bessey,
her daughter, Cindy Hatfield, seven grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. She was
predeceased by her son, Mark Bessey. She is also survived by Mark’s partner, Becky Mitchell.
Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to unicefusa.org.