Age 96, of Lansing, passed away February 10, 2011. She was born on March 7, 1914, the daughter of Carl and Carrie Richardson, and grew up in Glen Ellyn, IL, a suburb of Chicago.
At North Central College she met the dashing pilot, race car driver, and love of her life, Dick Griffin. They married July 1, 1936, two weeks after Bess received her degree in history and math.
As a world traveler Bess had friends around the country and around the globe. She was active in many civic groups for years in both Orlando and Lansing. She was a founding board member of the Friends of Waverly Library, which became the Delta Township District Library.
Among her many accomplishments were soloing in an airplane, racing Corvettes, and acting in civic theatre productions. She was a lifelong member of the Christian Science Church and drew her serenity and peace from the Church.
Bess is survived by her children Cherry (Terry) Hamrick and Dee (Judith) Griffin, grandchildren Dr. Utah (Kristy) Hamrick and Lacey (Jeremy) Freeman, and great-grandchildren Robert and Taylor Freeman.
The family would like to thank her loving friends Julie Seeger, Sara Lincoln, and Wilda Joss who visited her frequently, and the kind and caring staff at Tendercare West and Hospice.
Bess enjoyed and was a long-time supporter of Public Radio, especially the radio reader and jazz programs. Donations in her memory may be sent to WKAR Radio Memorial Contributions, 283 Communication Arts Building, MSU, East Lansing MI 48824.
A memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 17, 2011 at the Delta Township Community Center, 7550 West Willow Highway, Lansing, MI 48917.
