Bessie Minus

With a heart full of love and a spirit that shone brighter than any star, Bessie Minus was a beacon of compassion and empathy in a world that so often lacks these qualities. Born as Parzeda “Bessie” Thomas on September 23, 1948, in Chestertown, MD, USA, Bessie grew to become a woman whose generosity was only surpassed by her loyalty. She lived for 60 years in Dover, Delaware, touching the lives of everyone she met with her kindness and warmth. Bessie's light dimmed on June 10, 2026, but her legacy of love and care continues to inspire all who knew her.

Bessie was a dedicated health care worker, where her empathetic nature shone. She was an active member of the Pride of Dover Elks Lodge #1125, finding joy in community and service. Her hobbies included collecting plants, cherishing the beauty of nature, and angel figurines, symbols of her love for the divine. She was also deeply attached to her family, never parting without saying "I love you," and preferring "see you later" to "goodbye". This testament to her endless love and optimism will forever be etched in our hearts.

Bessie is survived and dearly missed by her daughters, Bessie Scott and Tanya Klobodu, her son, Joseph Jr., and her daughter, Angela Cruz. She is also survived by her sister, Catherine Boyer, her niece, Nedra Boyer, and her sons-in-law, Courage Klobodu and Rodney Scott, Sr. She is preceded in death by her parents, William Thomas and Parzeda Washington, her daughter, Yvonne Ortiz, and her niece, Joy Hunley. Each one of them held a unique place in Bessie’s heart, and she in theirs.

We invite you to share your favorite memories of Bessie and upload photos to her memorial page. In sharing, we can celebrate the life of this extraordinary woman who touched so many with her kindness and love. Bessie may no longer be with us physically, but her spirit lives on, in the stories we share, the memories we cherish, and the love we continue to carry in our hearts.