Bessie Lorraine Davis

Bessie Lorraine Reddic-Davis was the third of five children born to the union of Anner Nise Phillips and
Oscar Reddic on December 18, 1929, in Overton, Texas. She heard the gospel and accepted Jesus Christ
as her personal savior at an early age.
She was educated in the New London school system and graduated high school as Valedictorian. She
was particularly proud of her speech entitled, “Turning Stumbling Blocks into Stepping Stones” as it also
became a theme for her life. She continued her education over the years and earned certificates in
practical nursing and evangelism. She was a gifted scholar and life-long student of the bible.
Around the age of thirty, Bessie moved to California to pursue better opportunities. She worked many
jobs through the years, and eventually became the voice of The Broadway Department Store, in
Hollywood. She retired as a Sales Associate from The Broadway Crenshaw. Bessie often noted that her
greatest achievement had been raising three children as a single mother; there were many challenges,
but God always provided and brought her through.
She served in several Los Angeles area churches over the years as a Choir Member, Choir President,
Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Chairman of the Deaconess Board, Head of the
Mothers’ board, Prayer Warrior and Evangelist. She was known for excellence in church programs that
she produced for Easter, Christmas, and special services. She was most recently a member of True Vine
Missionary Baptist Church in Inglewood, CA.
Preceding her in death were her mother, Anner Nise Phillips; father, Oscar Reddic; three brothers, Floyd
Reddic, James A. Reddic, Johnnie Reddic; and aunt, Lola Bell Brown.
She is survived by her sister, Anna Lois Reddic-Hughes (Houston, TX); three children, Kenneth Howard
(Los Angeles, CA), David Brumfield (Chicago, IL) and Regina Clark (Van Nuys, CA); twelve grandchildren,
Michael Howard, Jade Howard, Jasmine Howard, D’Andre Lampkin, Delwin Lampkin, Israel Howard,
Christopher Terry, David J. Brumfield, Raven Richardson, Kennisha Howard, Tiphani Clark and Kennedi
Clark; twenty-four great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; six god children; two nieces,
Dorothy Roberson and La Fiaun Coates (Los Angeles, CA); and a host of adoring family members and
friends.
Bessie (Granny) was fun-loving, determined, caring, and a friend to all. Our hearts are broken, and she
will be sorely missed. We find peace in knowing that she is in heaven, with no pain or suffering, enjoying
her reward in eternity. We will love and remember you until the day we see you again on the other
side, mom. You have given us many great examples by living a life that pleased and glorified God.