Bessie Mae Brandon, age 64, of Newport, departed this life on December 31, 2025. Born on August 7, 1961, in Newport to Booker Brandon and Thelma Hardaway, Bessie was a cherished daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a lifelong resident of Newport, where she built a legacy of love and kindness that touched everyone she met.
Bessie found joy in the simple pleasures of life—cleaning her home, tending to her yard, and basking in the serenity of the outdoors. She was never happier than when she felt the sun on her face or the earth beneath her hands. Her hardworking spirit and generous heart were well-known throughout her family and community, always ready to lend a hand or share a caring word.
Bessie’s laughter, wise advice, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a tapestry of stories and lessons that will guide her family for generations to come.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents; her daughter, Mary Brandon; her brothers, Robert Brandon, Roosevelt Brandon, Chester Brandon, Richard Brandon, Milton Brandon, and Albert Brandon; and her sisters, Alberta Carter, Shirley Brandon, and Josephine Brandon. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.
Left to carry on her legacy are her devoted sons: Albert Dewayne Brandon and Detrick Brandon, both of Newport; and her loving daughters: Betty Moreland (Chris) and Janice Brandon Slaughter, both of Newport. She is also survived by her brothers, Donnie Brandon (Denise) of Newport, and Dale Brandon of Orange, Virginia; and her sister, Velma Anders (Levi) of Newport.
Bessie’s greatest joy was her family, and her grandchildren—Jazmine Long-Taylor, Rikki Jones, Janicia Peel, Andresha Harris, Zamarion Brandon, Yanani Wyrick, and Detrick Brandon Jr.—brought her immeasurable pride. She was also blessed to welcome a great-grandchild, Knox Taylor, into the family. Each of them carries forward her legacy of love, resilience, and kindness.
Funeral services to honor the life and memory of Bessie Mae Brandon will be held at the Dillinger Funeral Home Chapel on January 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Visitation for family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service. All who loved Bessie are invited to remember, grieve, and celebrate a life so beautifully lived.
