Charles Edward Bess, 73, of Pensacola, FL passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness on Thursday, July 20, 2017.

A resident and native of Pensacola, Charles was the eldest son of Charles and Dorothy Bess. He earned his degree in Engineering from Mississippi State University. Charles served honorably as an officer in the United States Army in Germany, Turkey and Greece and later had a career in investment banking.

Charles is survived by his wife of 43 years, Barbara Lindsay Bess; son, Nathan Charles Bess of Pensacola, FL; sisters, Linda Lake (Pete) of Aiken, SC, Judy Hendy (Mike) of Topsail Island, NC and Deborah Bachmore (Russell) of McMinnville, OR.

A Memorial service and the interment of his ashes will take place at Barrancas National Cemetery at 11:30am on Friday, July 28, 2017.

Anyone wishing to attend is asked to please arrive at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel at 10:30am to join the cortege to the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Nature Conservancy, an organization that Charles cared for and contributed to.