Bessie E. Mikel, 89, Versailles, MO, formerly of Jacksonville, MO passed away Tuesday, August 15, 2023, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born December 4, 1933, in Keytesville, MO the daughter of the late Charles and Dovie (Creason) Campbell. She was united in marriage to Joe Berry and had five children. Later on, September 26, 1959, she was united in marriage to Rex Mikel and had two children. They were married 64 years.
She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her children Geraldine Perkins of Columbia, MO, Rexel Berry of Mexico, MO, Freda Mikel of Fulton, MO and Mike Mikel of Holliday, MO; three siblings Mickey Ross of Glasgow, MO, Anna Sapp of Armstrong, MO and Mary McClarrion of Armstrong, MO; 21 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents, her husband, Rex Mikel, her ex-husband Joe Berry, three children Brenda K. Murray, Betty L. Perking, James Berry, three brothers and seven sisters, and three grandchildren Melissa Berry, Joseph Cockrum and David Davidson preceded her in death.
Bessie worked all her life at the School Barn, University Campus, Boone Hospital, Motels, and the Donut Shop in Columbia, MO. She enjoyed camping, boating, and riding across the country with her husband on their motorcycle. She loved spending time with her family and her children. She was a good dancer; singer and she played the guitar. She enjoyed planting flowers, gardening and had a green thumb.
Funeral services will be 11:00 am Saturday, August 19, 2023, at the Oliver Funeral Home in Centralia, MO. Interment will be1:30 pm Saturday, August 19, 2023 in the Mt. Salem Cemetery near Excello, MO. Visitation will be from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm Friday, August 18, 2023, at the Oliver Funeral Home in Centralia, MO. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mt. Salem Cemetery, c/o Oliver Funeral Home, P.O. Box 125, Centralia, MO 65240. Condolences may also be made to the family at www.oliverfuneralhome.net