Rising Stars: Meet Chevy Bess of High Desert

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chevy Bess.

Hi Chevy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Chevy (Chevala) a dedicated follower of Christ, expressing my journey as “ever evolving into all that God has called me to be.” I hold Psalm 51 close to my heart, especially verse 10, “create in me a clean heart O God; and renew a right spirit within me” endeavoring to live a life pleasing to HIM.

Fort Worth, Texas is the place where I was born to a single mother who later married the man who would be the dad that raised me. He was in the military, so I had the experience to travel and live in various places like New York, Spain and finally settling in California.
Although I did not see my grandparents regularly after my mother married, as we moved and only visited during summers, they had a meaningful influence on me. My grandparents were committed to their faith in Jesus and prayer. I believe that their prayers and the wisdom they shared have supported me throughout my life. My strong faith in Jesus is rooted in this background, as well as my mother ensuring that I attended church and participated in serving the Lord.
My passion is serving in ministry at the Burning Bush Baptist Church under the leadership of Bishop David Denson Jr. , where I have been a member for over 29 years. I have served faithfully in various capacities, such as Hospitality, Evangelism, Porter, Deacon, Youth, and the WOW (Women of Wisdom) ministries.
In 2006, I announced my calling to preach the gospel. Since that time, I have completed my church’s comprehensive “Minister- In- Training” program and met the requirements to become a licensed Minister in 2008. Additionally, I am a graduate of The Exodus School of The Bible and was ordained an Elder in March 2024.
In addition to serving the Faith-Based Community, I have been actively engaged in numerous other community organizations and initiatives over the years. These include serving as the Event Coordinator for the Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration and participating in various capacities in the School District. It was very important to me to be present and involved in my children’s academic and community experiences. My volunteer efforts extend to supporting individuals involved in domestic violence programs, engaging in various activities aimed at assisting and supporting those in need.
I truly enjoy life, laughter and spending time with family, friends, and retirement after forty-one years of employment. I have been married nearly 39 years to my very loving and supportive husband. We have been blessed with one daughter, and two sons, daughters-in-laws and grandchildren.
In my spare time, I appreciate watching a good movie, reading, listening to gospel and jazz music, as well as greeting the dawn of a new day having “coffee with Jesus”, my quiet time.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My career began in the grocery industry in 1977, with experience spanning roles such as cashier, bakery associate, general merchandise clerk, and ultimately floral manager. I retired after completing 41 years of dedicated service.

How do you define success?
Success is fulfilling God’s purpose in my life and hear HIM say well done! My goal is to live my life pleasing God, and live how I want to be remembered.
Success is acknowledging and being grateful and thankful for what you have and not complaining about what you don’t have. You will see you have much more than you realize!