Bessie M. Schleyhahn

Bessie M. Schleyhahn, 97, of Girard, formerly of Springfield died at 7:00 am Tuesday, November 4, 2014 at Memorial Medical Center.  She was born February 28, 1917 in Loami to Ola and Rose Belle Sims Barker.  She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Frank, Homer and Ola, Jr.; four sisters, Genevieve Harney, Opal Roberts, Lucille Cole and Pearl Phillips; a daughter, Marilyn Mayes and a grandson, Michael Lee Pickford.

Bessie was a resident of Springfield all of her life and was a homemaker.  She was a member of West Side Christian Church, Lilla Rebekah Lodge #63.  She loved cats, dogs and playing BINGO.

Surviving are a daughter, Barbara (William, Sr.) Pickford of Springfield; three grandchildren, William, Jr. (Theresa) Pickford of Girard, Michelle Pickford of Springfield and Marilyn (Robert) Speaks of Franklin; several great and great great grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation: 10-11 am Thursday, November 6, 2014 at Staab Funeral Home.

Funeral Service:  11 am Thursday, November 6, 2014 at Staab Funeral Home with Reverend Susan Young officiating.  Burial will follow at Sulphur Springs Cemetery in Loami.

Memorials may be given to the Animal Protective League or Sangamon County Animal Shelter.