Theda Sylvia Childs Bess, 94, of 211 E. Gray St., Covington, Virginia, died Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at her residence.

Mrs. Bess was born December 22, 1927 in Alleghany County, a daughter of the late Harrison McKinley and Arena Myrtle Tingler Childs.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Roscoe Bess in 2006; and a sister, Celia Maude Childs Ginn.

She was a graduate of Covington High School and worked as a secretary for the FBI in Washington for a time. She retired in 1992 as a secretary for the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

She loved to square and lion dance as well as loved animals and served diligently in her callings to the church. She was very willing to help those who were less fortunate.

Surviving are her special close friends, James Arritt and wife, Jeanie; longtime caretakers, Brenda Bogar and Twila Boyd.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. in Chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with the President Ray Lockhart officiating.

The family will receive friends on Saturday one hour prior to the service.

The interment will be held in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial donations to be made in Mrs. Bess' name to the Church of Jesus Christ at Latter-day Saints, C/O Pres. Ray Lockhart at 315 Jacksons Flat, Covington, VA 24426.

The funeral arrangements are being held by Arritt Funeral Home.

The online guest registration is available at arrittfuneralhome.com.