Racine – Bessie Lou Andrews, 88, passed away at home on Tuesday, April 19, 2016. She was born in Etta, Mississippi on November 16, 1927, daughter of the late Amul and Estelle (nee: Visor) Harris. Bessie moved to Racine when she was a young woman, and in 1952 was married to Champion Andrews. Mr. Andrews preceded her in death in 1973.

Bessie began working at Nash in Kenosha, and continued to work for AMC and Chrysler until she retired in 1985. Bessie was a good wife and loving mother to her daughters; and was a surrogate mother to many neighborhood children.  She enjoyed fishing and camping; cooking and gardening; watching sports on TV; and as "Queen Bee" keeping in touch with friends on her CB radio. Bessie joined Greater Mount Eagle Baptist Church March 10, 1964 under Rev. Woods. Bessie participated in the Choir and as a Willing Worker.

Bessie is survived by her daughters: Julia "Judy" Andrews, Joann Andrews, and Phynell (John) Branch. Bessie had several nieces and nephew that she cherished:  Jackie Blackburn, Jerry Andrews and Joyce (Arthur) McGee all of Racine; 12 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren; sister: Pearlie (Fate) Rogers and Carolyn Vance of Etta, Mississippi; brother: Amul Harris II of Racine; as well as many other relatives and good friends, including Maggie Swoop, Bessie Thurman, Lettie Gray and Mr. and Mrs. Daniels. She was also preceded in death by her daughter: Billie Jean (BJ) Conner; grandchildren: Cory and Phydell Andrews; brothers: Ellis and Lloyd Harris; and sister: Mae Lois Harris and sister-in-law Julia Blannon. Conner.

Homegoing services will be held at Greater Mt. Eagle Missionary Baptist Church (929 State Street) at 11:00am on Wednesday, April 27, 2016 with Rev. Keith Evans officiating. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Visitation will take place in the church from 9:30am – 10:45am.

Many thanks are extended to Dennis Fisher, Jerry Andrews, and Lonnie "Baldy" Granberry for providing transportation to Bessie's appointments and errands.