Bessie Ann Durke, 86, a former resident of Orange and Broaddus, Texas, passed away on June 3, 2017, in San Antonio. Bessie was born September 4, 1930 in Orange, Texas to Levie Bourgeois. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Vernon W. Durke Jr., and her siblings Margaret, Earl, Lula, Hilda, and Lilly.
She is survived by her sister Mary Lou Hebert of Bridge City, her sons and their wives, Vernon W. Durke III and Kay Warhol of Houston, Stephen and Martha Durke of San Antonio, and Larry and Sue Durke of Coatesville, PA; grandchildren and their spouses Christine Durke, David Durke of San Antonio, Bryce Durke and his wife Emily Durke of Denver, CO; Erin Durke and her husband Jason Edmonds of Conowingo, MD, and great-grandchildren Max, Rosemary, Grace, and Hayden.
Bessie and her husband Vernon built and operated two restaurants in Orange, while raising three boys. They owned and operated a sandwich shop outside the Livingston Shipyard for many years before opening Durke's Burger in 1969. While Vernon worked at DuPont, Bess managed both businesses. After Vernon retired from DuPont, they sold the restaurants, traveled the US and Canada in their camper, and built a home on Lake Sam Rayburn at Powell Point. Bessie was a warm, energetic person, well-liked among the circle of friends with whom she and Vernon socialized and traveled. She’s remembered with great affection by her sons, daughter in-laws, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Her positive nature and love for life are traits she passed on to her family and all who knew her. Everyone who spent time with her appreciated her selflessness, wisdom and kindness. Her friends loved her, her family adored her and she will be forever missed.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 A.M., Saturday, June 10, 2017, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Orange. Officiating will be Father Joseph P. Daleo of St. Mary Catholic Church. Entombment will follow at St. Mary Cemetery in Orange.
Visitation will be from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Friday, June 9, 2017, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Condolences
Melinda Buller
June 9, 2017
I met Mrs Bess thru her friend Mrs Ruby Rachal. I was Mrs Ruby's caregiver & was privileged to visit often with Mrs Bess. Always such a sweet kind lady who put others first. A true example of a true Christian lady! I shall always cherish the sweet memories & remember her sweet smile! Our love & prayers to her family whom she loved dearly.....Melinda Buller
Anonymous
June 9, 2017
Fairest of All was purchased for the family of Bessie Ann Durke.
Glenna Rachal Baskin
June 8, 2017
Sending my deepest sympathy and prayers. Wonderful memories of your mom over the years, especially when we were younger and our families spent time together. She had such a kind heart and was always so thoughtful. Blessings of peace as you travel this journey. Love to all. Glenna
Anonymous
June 6, 2017
Peaceful White Lilies Basket was purchased for the family of Bessie Ann Durke.
Mark, Laura, Hannah And Sarah
June 5, 2017
Mark, Laura, Hannah and Sarah purchased the Arrive in Style for the family of Bessie Ann Durke.