Paul Wafford Yancey Bessiere, age 68, of Kennesaw, Georgia died Sunday August 7, 2016. Paul was born January 13, 1948 at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents father, Jean Wesley Bessiere and mother, Bobbie Staffins Bessiere. Paul attended E.P. Howell Elementary School in Atlanta. Upon completion of their new house in Sandy Springs, Georgia. He graduated from James L. Riley Grammar School. He attended and graduated from W. F. Dykes High School in Atlanta, in 1965. Upon his graduation he immediately became an apprentice electrician and joined the IBEW Local Union 613. He graduated in 1970 as a Journeyman Wireman and later became a Master Electrician. As the years went by Paul joined many organizations. In 1975, Paul joined the Masons and was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on August 22, 1975. He is the Past Master of Roswell Lodge #165. He became a district deputy to the Grand Master of all Masons in 1980. He was a honorary member of LeRoy Duncan Lodge #262 F.&A.M. Paul became a Royal Arch Mason on May 29, 1976, he became a 32nd degree Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Mason. On March 20, 1981 he became a Noble of the Mystic Shrine in Yaarab Temple in Atlanta, Georgia. Later, he joined the Shrine Clown unit and performed under the name of "Mumbles". On July 31, 1982 he became a Chartered Member of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon of the Georgia State Forest #181. Paul is a Charter and founding member of Thomas L. Scott Lodge #739 F.&A.M. and was a three time Past Master and Director of Works for many years of said lodge. Also, he was a member of the American Legion Post #201 of Alpharetta, Georgia.
In 1984 Paul went into business as an Electrical Contractor until his retirement.
Paul is survived by his wife Barbara Thurmond; brothers Gene W. Bessiere and wife Lisa of Forsyth, Georgia and Eddie L. Bessiere of Dawsonville, Georgia; daughters Kimberly Murray and Lindsay Bessiere; step-daughter Hope Cushen and step-son Shane Boynton and wife Tammy, two biological grandchildren Brandon Murray and Zachary Hollenbaugh, two step-grandchildren Katie and Harper Cushen and nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 PM, August 10, 2016 at Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home, 2950 Cobb Parkway North, Kennesaw, Georgia 30152. Interment will be at 3:00 PM, August 10, 2016 at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Atlanta, Georgia.
The family will be receiving friends and relatives from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM, Wednesday, August 10, 2016 at Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Paul's name to the Alzheimer's Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
August 10, 2016
Billie Francis
Barbara and Family, I was so sad to hear of the passing of my cousin Paul. I have so many wonderful memories of him growing up. He was quite a character and would always keep us laughing. I don't believe he ever met a stranger. His smile could light up a room and he always gave the best hugs. I love you Paul and I am thankful you are no longer sick. Get the party started, I'll see you when I get there! Your Cousin, Billie Paula Staffins Francis
August 10, 2016
Chip Kays
Barbara,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I have so many special memories of watching you and Paul dance at the American Legion.
Deepest sympathy,
Chip
August 10, 2016
Joy Gaston
Dear Barbara,
I have so many fond memories from knowing Paul in high school. I know you have been by his side throughout his illness. What a wonderful gift that was for Paul. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
Fondly,
Joy Gaston
August 10, 2016
Doug & Carolynn Wilson
Carolynn and I will truly miss Paul. He and Barbara took Carolynn under their wing at the Legion dances and, later, Doug as well. Paul was such a "fun" guy to be around. He was always kidding around and yet could turn serious on a dime and be there for whatever the need. One thing you knew about Paul and that was his love for Barbara. It showed constantly. We never knew how involved Paul was in the Masons until we read of his accomplishments but that showed how committed he was to anything that he became interested in. It is hard to believe that Paul has passed but he has achieved what so many of us desire: he made a difference; he enjoyed life; he was a loving husband and father; and he made an impression on all of us that will be remembered throughout the coming years of all his family and friends. Our sympathies to you Barbara and all of the family.
August 10, 2016
Mike Saade
Barbara, My Heart Goes Out To You At This Sad Time! May God Be With You and Give You Strength! God Bless Paul and I Know He Is In The Best Hands, With The Lord, Forever!
August 9, 2016
Yangsook Ku
Barbara, I am so sorry to hear Paul's passing. Pray for peace and comfort for you and your family. I love you Barbara, you are very special and dear friend!
August 9, 2016
Phyllis Rodkin
Barbara, you and Paul have always been so special to me. I'm so sorry to hear about Paul's passing and my heart goes out to you and your family. I have so many fond memories of you and Paul that I will cherish. May God comfort you and your family during this time of sadness. Love you, Phyllis Rodkin
August 9, 2016
Norma Verner
Barbara, we love you & are so sorry for your loss. Paul has been missed so much at the Legion. Our prayers & thoughts are with the family.
August 8, 2016
Joan Brigham
Barbara Jean, my deepest condolences to you and your family, prayers for your collective peace. So very sorry for your loss.
August 8, 2016
Wanda & Doug Evers
Barbara I am so very sorry for your loss, it has been a long while since myself and Doug have seen you and Paul. Have so many wonderful memories of all from our Studebaker's Day. You and your family are in our prayers.
August 7, 2016
Kristi Hensley
I'm so very sad to hear of Paul's passing. Praying for peace for the whole family.
(Nice of Gene and Lisa Bessiere)
August 7, 2016
Ray Mccafferty
We have missed Paul dancing to our Music, he seemed to enjoy our sound. I lost my Mom last Sept due to this Illness. RIP Paul. (Southpaw Band) Thx for the Memories.
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