Janis Bessire

Janis Ball Bessire
(June 18, 1954 – April 6, 2022)

Born in Nashville on June 18, 1954, Janis was the youngest child of four and the only daughter of Noel and Vida Ball.

Jan grew up in the Inglewood and Rosebank areas of Nashville, graduating from Stratford High School. She attended MTSU and Belmont. After working for a number of years in the insurance industry, she worked in the District Attorney’s office in Metro Nashville for nearly ten years.

No work that she did even compared to the position that she valued most, being the mother of two precious daughters, Allison and Shannon. They were the joy of her life, and as they grew, married and had children, the grandchildren joined them in that special place in her heart. Stella, Logan and Archer were the topic of almost any conversation that you might have with Jan. She took delight in having them stay with her. There were no limitations on her love for her family.

Mike Riggins came into her life in 2013, and they quickly formed a lasting bond. He embraced her daughters and celebrated the arrival of each new grandchild with her. Mike (more commonly known as Captain) and Jan (Nana to the grandchildren) delighted in any activity with the grandchildren.

In addition, Jan usually had more than one dog as a cherished part of her family.
Janis was preceded in death by her parents, Noel and Vida Ball, and brother, Dennis Ball.

Janis is survived by her faithful companion, Mike Riggins; daughters, Allison Duhl and Shannon Russell (Seth); grandchildren, Stella Russell, Logan Duhl, and Archer Russell; brothers, Leon Ball (Linda) and Stan Ball (Rachel); sister-in-law, Jamie Ball; stepsisters, Paulette Potter and Pamela Duke (Eddie), along with many nieces and nephews.

A time to visit with the family and celebrate the life of Jan will be held on Sunday, April 24, anytime between 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Glen Oak Clubhouse, 101 Agee Circle E., Hendersonville, TN 37075.