Bessie M. Morris, 96 of Bethlehem, formerly of Wind Gap, passed away on Thursday, April 4, 2019 in Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg. She was the wife of the late Franklin C. Morris who died in 1964.

Born November 5, 1922 in Nazareth, she was the daughter of the late Layton and Elizabeth Rasley Smith.

Bessie graduated from Nazareth High School in 1941. Before retiring, she worked in Wind Gap as a sewing machine operator for Valerie Fashions for 15 years, and earlier 20 years for Vinnie Blouse.
She was a member of Schoeneck Moravian Church in Nazareth, where she served as Sunday School teacher for over 30 years. Bessie was a member of ILGWU Local 234 of Easton, and had the position of Den Mother for Cub Scout Pack#46 for over 10 years. She was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels for more than 17 years, and also several years at Gracedale Nursing Home.

Bessie is survived by sons, John and his wife Carla Sue of Bethlehem, and Larry and his wife Lisa of Hazleton; granddaughter, Lisa Shafer and her husband Benjamin; and great grandson, Samuel. She was predeceased by her brother, Charles E. Smith; and Larry's first wife, Linda K. Morris.

Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, April 11, from 10-11 am in Schoeneck Moravian Church, 316 N. Broad St. Ext., Nazareth. A memorial service will follow at 11 am in the church. Burial will be private with the family. Arrangements are under the care of the Schmidt Funeral Home, 202 West St., Wind Gap.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Bessie's name may be offered to the church.