Bessie B. Heller

October 22, 2024 at 4:33 p.m.


It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bessie B Heller, beloved wife, devoted mother, and cherished friend, who left this world on October 15th, 2024 at the age of 64. She was surrounded by her loving family and embraced by the grace of God.

Born on June 30th, 1960 in Rushville to Melvin Gideon and Wiona Kay (Cross) Gideon Heck, Bess was a shining light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her faith in Christ was the foundation of her life, guiding her through both joyous moments and challenging times. As a member of Rushville Church of Christ, she actively participated in vacation bible school and teaching Sunday school. Her love for teaching young people about Christ was unwavering. She was also a member of the women’s group and various other ministries, sharing her love and compassion with those in need.

Bess was a 1978 graduate of Rushville Consolidated High School where she was 8th in her class.  Bess married her soulmate, Tim Heller, on July 6th, 1979, after being middle school sweethearts. Together they built a beautiful family that was surrounded by love. She was a nurturing mother to her son Joseph, instilling in him the values of love, kindness, and faith. She was also known as Grammy and Honey to her grandchildren and close loved ones. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love, where friends and family were always welcomed with open arms.

Beyond her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother, Bess was a loyal friend to many. Her compassion and empathy knew no bounds, and she had a unique ability to make everyone feel valued and heard. Whether through a kind word, a listening ear, or a warm meal, she touched the lives of countless individuals.

Bess is survived by her loving husband, Tim of Rushville; her son Joe and his wife Ashley of Shelbyville and their three children Jackson, Camden and Marlee; her siblings, Melvin (Melodie) Gideon of Florida, Mark (Lindy) Gideon of Spiceland, Nan Case (Ron Townsend)  of Bargersville, Kathy (Corey) King, and Matt Gideon all of Connersville; and numerous nieces and nephews, her friend, Rhonda Barton of Rushville, as well as a host of friends who will forever cherish her memory. 

A celebration of Bess’ life was held Monday, October 21, 2024 a 1 p.m. in the Rushville Church of Christ with Jim Coyle presiding.  Friends and family gathered to honor her legacy and share their fondest memories on Sunday afternoon in the church.  Burial was in the Rushville East Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Rushville Church of Christ or an organization of the donor’s choice, a cause dear to the donor’s heart.

Though she may be gone from our sight, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Bess taught us the true meaning of faith, love, and friendship, and she will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Moster Mortuary, Rushville, entrusted with arrangements.

Paid obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bessie B Heller, beloved wife, devoted mother, and cherished friend, who left this world on October 15th, 2024 at the age of 64. She was surrounded by her loving family and embraced by the grace of God.

Born on June 30th, 1960 in Rushville to Melvin Gideon and Wiona Kay (Cross) Gideon Heck, Bess was a shining light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her faith in Christ was the foundation of her life, guiding her through both joyous moments and challenging times. As a member of Rushville Church of Christ, she actively participated in vacation bible school and teaching Sunday school. Her love for teaching young people about Christ was unwavering. She was also a member of the women’s group and various other ministries, sharing her love and compassion with those in need.

Bess was a 1978 graduate of Rushville Consolidated High School where she was 8th in her class.  Bess married her soulmate, Tim Heller, on July 6th, 1979, after being middle school sweethearts. Together they built a beautiful family that was surrounded by love. She was a nurturing mother to her son Joseph, instilling in him the values of love, kindness, and faith. She was also known as Grammy and Honey to her grandchildren and close loved ones. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love, where friends and family were always welcomed with open arms.

Beyond her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother, Bess was a loyal friend to many. Her compassion and empathy knew no bounds, and she had a unique ability to make everyone feel valued and heard. Whether through a kind word, a listening ear, or a warm meal, she touched the lives of countless individuals.

Bess is survived by her loving husband, Tim of Rushville; her son Joe and his wife Ashley of Shelbyville and their three children Jackson, Camden and Marlee; her siblings, Melvin (Melodie) Gideon of Florida, Mark (Lindy) Gideon of Spiceland, Nan Case (Ron Townsend)  of Bargersville, Kathy (Corey) King, and Matt Gideon all of Connersville; and numerous nieces and nephews, her friend, Rhonda Barton of Rushville, as well as a host of friends who will forever cherish her memory. 

A celebration of Bess’ life was held Monday, October 21, 2024 a 1 p.m. in the Rushville Church of Christ with Jim Coyle presiding.  Friends and family gathered to honor her legacy and share their fondest memories on Sunday afternoon in the church.  Burial was in the Rushville East Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Rushville Church of Christ or an organization of the donor’s choice, a cause dear to the donor’s heart.

Though she may be gone from our sight, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Bess taught us the true meaning of faith, love, and friendship, and she will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Moster Mortuary, Rushville, entrusted with arrangements.

Paid obituary

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