Mrs. Tiny Bess Evans Nelson

Tiny Bess Nelson, 77, of Mobile, AL, passed away on April 10 surrounded by her adoring family, following an extended illness. A graveside service was held April 17 at Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spanish Fort, AL. Bess is survived by her husband of more than 56 years, Robert Nelson, Sr. and son, Robert Nelson, Jr., both also of Mobile, grandson Robert Lynn Nelson of Oxford, MS, sisters: Becky Evans Watson of Raymond, MS, Rachel Evans Hughes of Coos Bay, OR; brother, Steve (Jean) Evans of Demopolis, AL and aunt, Nona Kinchloe Tillman of Winona, MS, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Kathryn Tillman Evans of Winona. Tiny Bess was the namesake of her grandmothers, Clementine “Tiny” Evans and Bessie Mae Alexander Tillman. Born December 14, 1945, Bess spent her childhood in Winona, MS, where she valued the lifelong friendships developed in school there. She cherished time with her classmates, and was visited by some of them in her final days, a testimony of her commitment to maintaining relationships. A graduate of the University of Mississippi, Bess earned a degree in finance and met the love of her life, Robert, on a blind date there. They were married August 24, 1966. Upon graduation in May 1968, Bess began her career in banking and welcomed a son, Robert Jr., the same summer. When her husband Robert, Sr. completed military service and also began career in banking, Bess’s career took a new direction to prevent them from working for competing banks. The family settled and spent many years in Germantown, TN. Bess followed an interest she had long held, furniture. For years her grandparents had owned an antique furniture store in Winona, a business Bess was well acquainted with. When an accounting opportunity became available at a new Ethan Allen furniture store, it was a perfect fit. Bess eventually became store manager and went on to manage six different Ethan Allen stores in Tennessee and Alabama. She finished her career in the retail furniture business managing a Krishmann store. A lifelong Methodist, Bess’ faith was important to her. She demonstrated it by the way she loved, taking seriously the words of Jesus in John 13:34: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation of the American Heart Association.

Mrs. Tiny Bess Evans Nelson

December 14, 1945 - April 10, 2023