-Bessie Mae Freeman Foster "Nana"

Born at home in Pikeville, Tennessee, November 5, 1948, to parents Mose Freeman and Stella Brock Freeman, Bessie Foster passed peacefully from this plane of existence on Saturday, March 23, 2024, in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Bessie was a free spirit. She loved to joke and laugh, most of all with her favorite person in the world, her twin sister, Effie. The two held an unbreakable bond, spoke a special language only they understood, and shared a love, loyalty, friendship, and sisterhood like no other. Nashville became their home when as teenagers the two came to the Tennessee Preparatory School for education and a better life.

Bessie enjoyed exploring thrift stores and playing slots and bingo at the casino. She also loved listening to and singing along with old hymns, classic rock, and country music. Her happy place was sitting in the sunshine, with an iced cold Pepsi and a good book.

She is preceded in death by her husband, John (Johnny) Foster Sr., her parents, and siblings, Emma Ruth and Edith Anne, Tom, and Henson.

Bessie is survived by her beloved twin sister, Effie Marie Raines; siblings, Leanna, Nancy, Peggy, and Melvin. She also leaves behind a daughter, Buffy Thomas, and son in law, Gary; son, John "Rabbit" Foster Jr., and daughter in law, Misty; granddaughter, Kassi (Jim), two grandsons, Mikey (Kristen), and John "Puppy" Foster III (Julie); great grandchildren, Nico, Jace, Kingston, and Mia; as well as two nephews who were like sons, Billy Irwin and George Raines; and two great-nieces with whom she shared a special bond, Brittany and Briana Raines.

A private celebration of her life will be held at a later date.