Toni (Bulick) Bess

Long time St. James resident, Toni Bess, died peacefully at the age of 75 in Rolla, Missouri following an extended illness on June 11, 2017.   Toni was born September 3, 1941 in Columbia, Missouri to Dr. Paul and Helen Bulick.  She is survived by her sister, Nancy Hughes and husband, Wilson Hughes of Anchorage, Alaska, niece Polly Hughes VonBergen of Fairfax, Virginia, nephew Paul Hughes of Anchorage, and five great nieces and nephews.  Toni’s husband, Dr. Milburn Bess, preceded her in death in 1981.  He was the love of her life. Toni lived in several cities in the US over the years, but always called St. James home. 

Toni was a case manager at Rolla Regional Center and taught/tutored in St. James and Steelville.  Even though Toni did not have children of her own, she cherished the opportunity to encourage, teach and council young people.  She used her own life experiences and education to provide the basis for guiding others.  She loved her home and her cats and dogs who had the run of her house.  She was always known for wanting to help others, whether they had two legs or four.  

A memorial picnic for family and friends is planned at Maramec Spring Park (Massey Shelter) at noon on Saturday, July 8.  Memorial contributions can be made to the Phelps County Animal Welfare League, 1304 Highway O, Rolla, Missouri 65401. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Mo.

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