Bessie Ray Hickman 90, transitioned on November 14, 2018 at home surrounded by loved ones. Services will begin with a viewing at 10:00 am and a celebration of life ceremony at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 20th at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, 3030 7th Ave., Rock Island.

Bessie McDonald was born on May 8, 1928 in Louisville, Mississippi to Ezra and Nancy (Triplet) McDonald. Bessie was one of sixteen children between her parents. Bessie Ray McDonald accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her savior at an early age. As an adult, she was a member of People's Missionary Baptist Church, where she was one of the mothers of the church.

Bessie Triplett married George Rufus McDonald in the 1950's and through this union, they had ten children George Rufus Jr., Johnnie B. Hickman (Barbara Hickman), Marion Hickman, Earl (Dorothy Barnes), Otha Hickman (Gail Hickman) Bobbie Ann Hickman (Wardell Wilson), Gloria Williams, Larry Hickman, Juanita Hickman, and Dennis Hickman. She is preceded in death by her late husband and three children George Rufus, Johnnie B. Hickman, and Juanita Hickman. She leaves a legacy of love and strength behind for her seven remaining children, a special sister Nellie Nicholson, 27 grandchildren, 64 great grandchildren and 20 plus great, great grandchildren. Bessie was a well-loved community mother, childcare provider, and homemaker. Any donations can be sent directly to Bobbie Ann Hickman, Gloria Williams or Anna Macon.