Bessie Hudson Arnold, age 90, of Thomaston, Georgia, passed away peacefully at her home on December 29, 2025. She was born on March 14, 1935, in Thomaston, Georgia, to the late Bera Bowles Hudson and Edgar Hugh Hudson.

Bessie grew up in Thomaston and went on to begin her professional life working in banking in Atlanta. Later, she pursued cosmetology school and built a successful and meaningful career as a hairstylist, a role that allowed her to connect deeply with others throughout her life.  She was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Thomaston, where her faith guided her actions and relationships. Bessie was known as a devoted mother, a loyal friend, and a servant leader who consistently put others before herself.

She is survived by her son, Andrew Arnold of Marietta, Georgia, and her daughter, Nancy Coogler of Thomaston, Georgia, sisters, Carolyn Kirkpatrick of Franklin, Ohio, Valette Jennings of Berea, Kentucky, son in law, Greg Boyt of Meansville, eleven grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Jackie Arnold; brother, Hugh Hudson, and her daughters, Leslie Boyt and Julie Ann Arnold.

A funeral service will be held at North Ridge Church of Thomaston on Saturday, January 3, at 2:00 PM. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects prior to the service during a brief open-casket viewing held shortly before the funeral begins.

Bessie will be remembered for her strength, kindness, unwavering faith, and the love she shared so freely with her family and community.

"Well done, my good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23)