Sylvia Marie Bess of Malden died Friday, Dec. 16, 2005, at Missouri Southern Healthcare in Dexter. She was born Feb. 11, 1912, at Bloomfield, the daughter of William Henry Huggins and Melissa Elizabeth (Lizzie) Rose Huggins.

On June 28, 1930, she was united in marriage to Joseph Kermit Bess, and he preceded her in death on Jan. 26, 1966.

Sylvia had been a homemaker and receptionist for an optometry office. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Malden, a member of the Eastern Star for over 65 years, and a member of the Malden Business Professional Women's Club.

Survivors include her daughter, Jo Nell Wilson of Canton, Miss.; one son, Dr. Ray Bess of Malden; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; two brothers; and an infant son.

Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, 2005, at the Landess Funeral Chapel in Malden.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 19, 2005, at Landess Funeral Chapel in Malden with Reverend Stan Wood officiating.

Interment will follow in Bloomfield Cemetery.