Arthur Willard Bess, 86, of 2616 Dogwood Avenue in Valley Ridge (Covington, VA) died Saturday, October, 23, 2010, at Henrico Doctors Hospital in Richmond.

Mr Bess was born February 3, 1924, at Jordan Mines In Alleghany County, a son of the late Andy Lee and Radie Arritt Bess.

He served with the Army Corps of Engineers in World War II.

He was employed for many years by C.B. Nettleton, Inc as Manager of the ready-mixed concrete plant. He later became co-owner of the former Alleghany Ready-Mix, Inc., which he operated until his retirement.

Arthur was a long time member of Covington Lodge #171, AF & AM.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Lucille McNultey Bess of Covington; his daughter, Susan Bess of Richmond; three brothers, Julian W. Bess of Covington, Gary D. Bess of Mississippi and Clayton P. Bess of Grafton, WV; one sister, Estella Kober of Annapolis Junction,Maryland; his sister-in-law, Lura McNultey; and several nieces and nephews.

The family suggest that donations in Mr. Bess' name be made to the Shriner's Crippled Childrens Hospital.

The funeral service will be held Tuesday morning at 11:00 a.m. at the graveside in Cedar Hill Cemetery with the Rev. Bill Gilliland officiating.

Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.