Bessie M. Wyatt

Bessie M. Wyatt, a cherished member of our community, peacefully departed from this world on April 24, 2025, at her residence. Born on April 30, 1943, in Haywood County, North Carolina, Bessie touched the lives of many through her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family.

Bessie dedicated several years of her life working in the cafeterias of Hazelwood Elementary and Waynesville Middle Schools, where her nurturing spirit and genuine care made her beloved among students and staff alike. After her retirement, she continued to find joy in simple pleasures; she loved bird watching, particularly the delightful hummingbirds that would visit her home. Her love for flowers brightened not only her yard but also the hearts of those who knew her.

A devoted member of Fairview Baptist Church, Bessie's strong faith informed her actions and interactions. Her church family meant the world to her and provided a source of support and community throughout the years.

Bessie’s greatest pride and joy came from her family. She is survived by her three sons, Larry Wyatt, Mike Wyatt (Karen), and Gary Wyatt (Teanna), whose lives she enriched with her love and wisdom. She also survived by two brothers; Keith Thomas (Laura) and Clay Thomas (Carla). Bessie was also a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren and a loving great-grandmother to eight great-grandchildren, each one holding a special place in her heart.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Clifford H. Wyatt, who passed on August 27, 2021, as well as her father, Norman G. McClure, her mother, Mattie Russell McClure, one sister, Katherine Trantham, two brothers, Jerry McClure and Roy McClure, and a daughter-in-law, Janet Wyatt.

Visitation will take place at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville, North Carolina, on Monday, April 28, 2025, starting at 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM with Reverends Jennings Sizemore and Darrell Hannah. Burial will follow at Rocky Branch Cemetery.

The care of Ms. Wyatt has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville