Elizabeth Bradford Bess

Elizabeth Bradford Bess was born on February 27, 1948, in Auburn, Alabama, and peacefully passed away surrounded by her family at her home in Brooklyn, New York, on Sunday, August 16, 2026. Known as "Liz;· she was the beloved daughter of the late Johnnie Lee Bradford and Rose Mae Bradford. Liz spent her early years in Auburn, Alabama, before relocating to Brooklyn in 1952 with her family. As one of five children, Liz shared a special love and bond with her siblings, and the memories they created were a meaningful part of her life. Liz naturally assumed the role of a nurturer. Her patience and compassion for others came effortlessly, and she developed a passion for nursing while studying at Clara Barton High School. She continued her studies, and then dedicated over 40 years to caring for others as a registered nurse. Liz met and wed Sydney Bess, and they were blessed with two children: their beautiful daughter, Jeanette, and wonderful son, Tyrone. Liz later met her soulmate, Sylvester Roberts. They loved traveling together, making memories, and sharing a love that blossomed into a beautiful blended family-further blessed by the birth of their son, John Roberts, "JR." Liz and Sylvester adored the family they built together and the love they shared with their children. Liz was known for her advice, guidance, encouragement, or simply being someone who'd listen. She made people feel heard, understood, and cared for, and she never hesitated to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. Her home was a safe haven to all, and her generous spirit put family and friends, and anyone else who needed a place to feel comfortable and loved, at ease. She always made sure there was room in her heart and her home for all who carea to be there. We've all gone to her for advice, support, or sometimes just to spend time together. And then there was her cooking. More than just a meal, her cooking was one of the myriad ways she expressed her love. Liz had a special gift in the kitchen and her food had a way of bringing people together. Elizabeth was a matriarch and proud mother who was preceded in death by her two sons, Tyrone Steven Bess and John Sylvester Roberts, "JR"; one sister, Vanessa Bradford; one brother-in-law, Mustapha; and one stepson, Richard. Elizabeth leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Sylvester Roberts; daughter, Jeanette Bethea (Timothy); six granddaughters: SeaQuett'e (Dustin), Kaia Rose, Katelynn, Emerald, Xiorangie, and Marie Joanay; one grandson, Deaunte; seven great-grandchildren: Kyrell, Maliyah, Elyzabeth'Vanessa, Cinco, Kimora, Deaunte Jr. and Antoine; two brothers: Johnnie (Deborah) and Anthony (Cheryl); and sister, Dora Estelle. One brother-in-law, Melvin. Four nieces: Sherise, Erica (John), Tisha, and Tuere. Three nephews: Wayne (Stephanie), James, and Johnnie, and a host of great-nieces and nephews. Stepdaughter, Stephanie Roberts; daughter-in-law, Luz Bierd; her best friend, Edna Armstrong; and a host of other family members and loved ones. Elizabeth leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will continue through her family for generations to come. Though her presence will be _deeply missed, the love she gave, the wisdom she shared, the meals she prepared, and the memories she created will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She opened her home, shared her heart, and gave of herself freely. Her greatest gift was the love she gave and that love will live on forever.