Bessie J. Thomas, a resident of Columbia MD for 44 years, died peacefully at Joseph Richey House on July 6, 2015 at the age of 81. She was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi on October 27, 1933 to the late Sallie Beatty and Howard Jackson. Graduate of Dunbar High School Class of 1952 and Cortez Peters Business School (first Business School for blacks in Washington, DC). Bessie had a successful career in retail as a store manager for Lane Bryant and realtor with Ashby and Associates. Bessie is survived by her husband James K. Kelly; three sons, the late Robert Everhart; James B. Thomas III, and Barry Thomas; four grandchildren, Robin Everhart-Terry, Ryann Everhart, Nia Thomas and Rayla Everhart; two great grandchildren, Milani Terry and Paislee Lattisaw; and her dear aunt Hazel Beatty and cousin Clyde Beatty. A Memorial Service will be held, Sunday, July 19, 2015. Viewing at 2:00 p.m., Service from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Advent Funeral & Cremation Services, 9013 Annapolis Road, Lanham, MD 20706. Online condolences may be left at www.adventfuneral.com.