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Virginia Lee Bessom, January 12, 1930 - March 4, 2005. Virginia was born and raised on a ranch near Yeso, New Mexico, until the age of 16. She then attended Highlands University. After graduation, she taught elementary school for the next 23 years. In 1965, Virginia married retired Col. Russell Bessom. Together they raised seven children. In 1972, as Virginia was expecting her youngest daughter, she acted on a longtime dream and opened Bessoms Gardens in Corrales. It was there that her talent as a business woman was realized. She hosted many weddings at Casa de Bessom in Corrales. Virginia always had a strong belief in God. She had wonder, enthusiasm and interest for the world she lived in. She loved music, dancing, traveling and watering plants. With the support of her faith and family, she survived cancer for nearly eight years. She will be loved and missed, but not forgotten by the many whose lives she touched. Virginia was a loving daughter, mother and wife. She is survived by her husband, retired Col. Russell Bessom; her 100-year-old mother, Laura Lee Smith, and her seven children, Clifford Roy Bessom and wife Mary Ann, Steven Dee Bessom and wife Katie, Laura Lee Bessom Vigil and husband Russell, Valerie Ann Bessom, Randy Gordon Bessom, Melody May Hooker and husband Bryan, Gail Klodt and husband Brad; her brother, Lawrence Smith and wife Judith; grandchildren, Stephanie Ann Mascarena and husband Nikko, Monica Marie Bessom, Brooke Michelle Bessom, Virginia Lee Violet Vigil, James Dee Vigil and Russell Thomas Hooker; beloved friend Jo Ann Van Fleet. A Memorial Service will be held for Virginia on Monday, March 7, 2005, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Rio Rancho, 3609 19th Avenue, Rio Rancho with Pastor Si Budagher officiating. Interment follows at Vista Verde Memorial Park in Rio Rancho. Arrangements by Sunrise Funeral Options 2400 Southern Blvd. Rio Rancho, New Mexico 891-9192
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