Mrs. Bessie Mae Rodgers

Bessie Mae Rodgers was born on June 18, 1940 to proud parents Henry Cunningham and Bessie Dennis in Prairie, Mississippi.

Bessie received Christ at an early age at Baptist Grove Church in Prairie, Mississippi. She moved to St. Louis, Missouri in 1954 where she was proud resident. She resided in the JVL Senior Apartments for 34 years, where everyone loved her.

In 1980, Mother joined West End Mt. Carmel Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. J.E. Turner the church moved to St. James M.B. Church in 1989 and in 1998 Rev. Kenneth B. Turner became pastor. Mother also attended Leonard Baptist Church until her health became challenged.

Affectionately known as "Big Moma", she was a jewel. She fed and housed so many people in her lifetime. She was like a magnet, everyone wanted to be attached to her because of her pretty smile, good advice, and listening ear. Big Moma loved good company and when she felt like it, could stay on the phone laughing for hours.

Mother could wear a suit like no other, she loved dressing. She was so easy-going and laid back that you never knew if something was bothering her. She wouldn't complain even if she wasn't feeling well. She was the best mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, God-mother and friend a person could ask for. God-sisters and the Five Heartbeats.

Bessie went home to be with her Savior on August 14, 2024. She was preceded in death the by both parents, her husband Hudson Rodgers Sr., two daughters Annie Mae Lee and Theresa Lee, one brother Willie Blanchard, two sisters Mary Hodges and Nazarce Blanchard, as well as Yvonne, Hudson Jr., Wesley, Velva, five grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Bessie leaves to cherish her memory: five children, Angela Cunningham, Roberta McMiller, Keith Lee (Lisa), James Lee and Marcia Lee; thirty grandchildren and fifty-nine great grandchildren. Mother was blessed to see five generations all of who will miss her dearly.

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