Ida Bess LeFevre

Ida Bess LeFevre, age 102, of Kansas City, Missouri, formerly of Bentonville, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, January 9, 2023. Bess was born on May 17, 1920 in Liberal, Kansas to George W. and Ida Bessie (Packer) Chaffin. Bess was a graduate of Ottowa University, class of 1945, a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and was in the Who’s Who in American University Students.

Bess and Lawrence (Larry) LeFevre were married in 1948 in Liberal, Kansas and had 2 children, James L. LeFevre and Jeanne M. Cooper. They were married for 55 years until her husband’s death in 2003.

Bess and Larry were actively involved in their community as well as their church.  They were charter members of St Thomas Episcopal Church in Springdale, AR. While their children were growing up they helped Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Rogers grow from a mission to a Parish. They then helped in founding St. Theodore’s in Bella Vista AR. Bess was active in E.C.W. both on the local and state levels, taught Sunday School and was altar guild directress for 10 years.

Bess, along with her husband Larry, owned and operated Camp-LeFevre Dry Goods store in Bentonville from 1956 to 1981 when they retired.

In 2013, Bess moved to Kansas City. While there, she volunteered at St. Luke’s Hospital, remained involved in church activities at Bishop Spencer Place, received the 70’s over 70 Award, and was an avid bridge player.

Bess was preceded in death by her parents, husband, 2 brothers, Frank and Emery Chaffin and sister, Paula Tournade.

Bess is survived by her loving children, James L. LeFevre (Andrea), and Jeanne M. Cooper (JD), and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to St. Theodore’s Episcopal Church in Bella Vista, Arkansas or the charity of your choice.