William (Bill) Bradley Bess, 64, passed unexpectedly in his sleep at home the morning of January 26, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Tori Conners Bess; his sons, Michael (Micah), and Bradley (Jessica) and grandson Anson; sisters, Elizabeth Williams, Sharon (Miles) Courson and Marylin (Brian) Callis; numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws; dear cousins Wendy, Scott, Ella and Anna Campagnari; and daughters of choice, Katie and Brindley Lowe.
Bill was born in Olean, N.Y., and grew up in Richmond. After high school, he spent time traveling the Intracoastal Waterway on a three-masted schooner, the “Sharon Virginia.” Bill spent years coaching youth sports in Middlesex County including soccer, baseball and basketball. His greatest joy was watching his sons play basketball. He provided transportation and tried his best to provide and support opportunities for many kids across the county. Bill cooked clam chowder at the Christ Church Parish booth at the Urbanna Oyster Festival for over 20 years.
Bill was devoted and loyal to his family and friends, with whom he shared his sharp wit in any attempt for a quick laugh at anyone’s expense. He was an early riser who started days by slowly driving down Route 33, stopping at each 7-Eleven along the way. When he finished using his carpentry and home repair skills for the day, he could be found at his home in Topping, watching a Yankee game or Judge Judy.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Bill Bess Memorial Fund at C&F Bank, P.O. Box 464, Saluda, VA 23149, a fund established to reduce MCPS student lunch debt and to benefit the youth of Middlesex County.
A service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 1, at Christ Church in Middlesex. Afterwards, the family will receive visitors in the parish hall.
