Bessie Lee Shapiro

Bessie Lee (Nix) Shapiro passed away peacefully at her home on May 4, 2024, surrounded by her children. Bessie was 95 years old and a resident of Columbia, Tennessee.

Born on July 16, 1928, in Columbia, Tennessee, Bessie was the beloved daughter of the late Austin Montgomery Nix and Lula Mai Gidcomb Nix and sister to Jerry, Billy, and Odell. Bessie spent her childhood swimming and sunbathing on the Duck River. Bessie continued her love for swimming throughout her life and could be spotted swimming at the Mule Town Rec Center, even over the last year of her life.

Bessie was a graduate of the Columbia Business College. Following her graduation, she worked as a Legal Secretary for many years. Bessie retired as a Cytology Technician for Dr. Ferrell, Dr. Mayfield, and Dr. Olson at the Pathology Lab in Columbia.

Bessie spent her later years celebrating the beautiful family she created, and her devotion to them was evident in all aspects of her life. Bessie raised her children in the Church of Christ and was a dedicated Christian. She was an incredibly kind and generous person. Bessie was a loving mother, grandmother, and  great grandmother. The legacy of love, warmth, humor, strength, and energetic spirit will live on through the generations.

Bessie is survived by her six children, Pat Chouinard of Tampa, Florida, Diane Hoge, Ben (Cindy) Shapiro, John (Ashley) Shapiro, Doug Shapiro, and Roland Shapiro, all of Columbia, Tennessee; grandchildren, Jeff Chouinard, Ashley Beth Shapiro, Jenna (Ty) Martin, Rachael (Jackson) Moser, Joseph (Lauren) Shapiro, Austyn Shapiro, Lakin Shapiro, and Corinne Shapiro; great grandchildren, Lily and Oren Moser, Novah Ricciardi, Ada Martin, Weller and Soloman Shapiro; and nieces and nephews, Kristi Nix, Jerri Ann “Jan” (Roger) Thompson, and Jeff (Sandy) Nix.

In addition to her parents, Bessie was preceded in death by her brothers, Odell, Billy, and Jerry Nix.

The family would like to express their appreciation for the care provided by Compassus Hospice and Dr. Paul Perryman and staff.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Heritage Funeral Home with Russ Adcox officiating. A visitation will also be held on Wednesday from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest in Rose Hill Cemetery at a later date. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.