Bessie C. Lebeau

Affectionately known as “Grams” by all who knew her, Bessie Corrine LeBeau, introduced herself to this world on March 13, 1936 at the Old Cheyenne River Agency, South Dakota.  She came out to Seattle, WA in the spring of 1979 seeking better medical care for her daughter, Mary Kay, and joined by her two children and two young grandchildren, Grams became the unwavering figure of love, strength, and resiliency in her family.

Working as a CNA for Tobey Jones and Jefferson House (to name a few), as an administrative assistant for the Puyallup Tribe’s Bingo Palace and the City of Tacoma, and as a clerk at the 19th Street Fred Meyer’s Playland, Grams instilled in her family a strong work ethic and a positive outlook on life. She gave sweet compliments from her heart and had a kiss and hug for you when she saw you. She went back to school and earned her Associate of Science degree in Legal Secretary studies at age 60, beaming with accomplishment after working so hard and completing her set goal. In her later years, she enjoyed sitting and listening to the little ones at Freddy’s Playland; their simple and loving thoughts on the world always put her in a good mood and gave her hope for the future. Grams carried us all; we learned so much through her stories and laughter. She enjoyed talking with people about their families, hearing their stories and finding a common ground in being human. Grams liked catching a nice meal after work, watching the Mariners play ball, writing in her journals, listening to good music, reminiscing about South Dakota, hopping on the bus and venturing out for the day, and she especially loved spending time with her family.

On August 14, 2019, Bessie passed peacefully into the next plain where we know she will greet us again someday. The loved ones who preceded her are her daughter and son, Mary Kay and Wilbur Bald Eagle, and her granddaughter, Shilo Metcalf. She leaves for now family who will dearly miss her soft voice, humor, reassuring touch, gentle laugh, stories, and wisdom. Bessie is survived by her daughter, Tina Metcalf; grandchildren, Dawn, Jesse, Michael, Michelle, Mary Kay, Candace, Tiara, and Jeremy; great-grandchildren, Elijah, Jacob, Isaac, Samuel, Caleb, Shiloh, and Rylee.

Her services will be held Saturday, September 7th at 11am, Visitation Catholic Church at 3314 South 58th Street, Tacoma, Washington 98409.  Rosary at 10:30am and a small reception following services.  Thank you to Gaffney Funeral Home and Tacoma General Hospital.