Bessie Saylor Madewell

Bessie Saylor Madewell, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on May 17, 2024 at the Harlan Health and Rehab in Harlan, KY. 

Bessie was born on August 30, 1942, and lived life filled with love, laughter and kindness. She touched the hearts of all who knew her with warm smile and compassionate nature. Bessie's hobbies and interests were a reflection of her nurturing personality - she was known for her delicious soup beans and her insistence that everyone be served before she would take a single bite. Her love for flowers and the outdoors brought her immense joy, as did family gatherings where she could share stories and make memories with those she cherished. She possessed a strong will and an unwavering concern for her family's well-being. Bessie found solace in sewing, reading books, and canning vegetables - skills she passed down through generations.

In the hearts of those who survive her are treasured memories of a woman who epitomized love and strength. Bessie is survived by her sons Scott Saylor, Doyle (Allison) Saylor, Rocky Saylor; daughters Penny (Frank) Goshen, Robin (Billy) Swanson; brothers Daniel Saylor, Don Saylor; sisters Evelyn (Charles) Rogers, Wilma Bulka, Dallas Smith; grandchildren AJ Saylor, Adam Saylor, Kayla Fuqua, Samantha Goshen; along with many nieces, nephews, family members, and friends who mourn her passing.

Bessie was preceded in death by her parents George and Laura Saylor; son Leslie Saylor; brothers Hobert Saylor, Andy Saylor; sisters Martha Helton, Mary Saylor, Ethel Saylor and Mossie Adams. Though she may no longer be physically present among us, the memories of Bessie will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Services to honor and celebrate Bessie's life will be held at Mount Pleasant Funeral Home in Harlan on May 19, 2024. A visitation will take place from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM followed by a funeral service from 7:00 PM with the Reverend Sean Daniels officiating. Bessie will then be laid to rest at Ben's Branch Cemetery in Bell County on Monday, May 20th at with the procession leaving the funeral home at 12 noon.

May the legacy of warmth and love that Bessie leaves behind bring comfort to all those who grieve her loss.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Harlan Health and Rehabilitation Center for the great care of their mother. 

Mount Pleasant Funeral home is deeply honored to serve the family of Mrs. Bessie Saylor Madewell.