Angela L. Terry-Bess

Angela Terry-Bess, affectionately known as Angie to those who knew and loved her, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 17, 2025, surrounded by her devoted family.

Angela was born on September 14, 1946, in Halifax, Virginia, to the late Hubbard Garnett and Mary Nannie Terry. Her family relocated to the Albany, New York area in 1949. She was educated in the Albany School System.

After high school, Angela began working at Sterling Winthrop pharmaceutical company where she dedicated over 30 years of hard work before retiring. In retirement, she developed a love for baking, often making elaborate cakes for loved ones birthdays or her famous zucchini bread and gardening.

In 1995, Angie began a new chapter when she married the love of her life, William Bess. The two built a beautiful life together filled with love, laughter, and partnership.

Later in life, She found Christ at Christian Memorial COGIC under the leadership of her late brother, Dr. Charles D. Guthrie. Then became an avid member of Progressive Faith Evangelical Ministries, where she worked to support her Brother Dr. Guthrie as well as for having candy for all the kids after Sunday service.

Angie was known for her kind heart and generous nature. You could always count on her to be there for whatever you needed.

Above all, Angie was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, supportive sister and aunt, and loyal friend. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family, longtime friends, and many others who became family through her boundless warmth.

Angela was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Jerlean “Mickey” Terry, Shelvie “Gobbie” Terry-Higgs, Charles D. Guthrie (Florine) and shortly after Angie’s passing her sister Estelle Jacobs passed.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving devoted son LeBarron Gaddy and her loving devoted granddaughter Desyinera Gaddy of Albany, NY. Her sisters Barbara (Herbert) McLaughlin and Lynda (Jonathan) Jones and Brother William Guthrie (Jeannie) of Albany, NY.

She is also survived by her Bonus son Dwon (Melinda) Bess and grandkids Dwon Jr and Davon, sisters in love Maxine Bess and Kim (Michael) Holt; and special cousin Adele Hendricks; special niece Shelly Ford; adopted son Eugene Bickley; and special friends Rose Thomas and Sister Delores Jackson.

Angie’s memory will be carried on by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were all touched by her light.

Angela Terry-Bess will be remembered not only for the life she lived, but for the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and never forgotten.

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