Bessie Ann (Dunbar) Bruner

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23 

Bessie Ann (Dunbar) Bruner was born on September 20, 1943, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was the youngest of thirteen children and was lovingly raised by the late Paul and Harriet Lynch in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on Madison Street. Bessie was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Talmage Hughes, who preceded her in death, and together they shared many cherished memories. 

Bessie accepted Christ at an early age while attending Grace Temple Church of God in Christ under the leadership of the late Elder James L. Hall, Sr. She later continued her Christian journey as a faithful member of Imani Baptist Temple under the leadership of Pastor Bill McGill. Her faith in God was the foundation of her life, guiding her in love, service, and compassion for others. 

Bessie made history as the first African American woman to ride motorcycles in Fort Wayne as a member of the Kings & Queens MC Club. She was a proud graduate of Central High School and later attended Ravenscroft Beauty College, where she became a licensed cosmetologist. She was employed by ITT for 30 years, retiring at the age of 65. Throughout her career, Bessie was known for her dedication, strong work ethic, and kind spirit. 

Bessie enjoyed nature, reading, dancing, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. She had a genuine love for people and a heart for helping others. She was deeply loved and admired for her kindness, faith, and joyful spirit—an angel and a treasure to everyone who knew her. 

Bessie leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Herbert L. Phillips III of Fort Wayne, Indiana; her daughter, Cynthia Gardner of Fort Wayne, Indiana; a sister, Michelle (Lee) Lynch Donaldson of New Bedford, MA, eight grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and special friends, including Doris Dowdell and Gladys Middleton. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her faith, love, and the light she brought into the lives of all who knew her. 

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