Bess Gose

Bess Gose, born September 29, 1945, in Lebanon, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on September 23, 2026, in Dayton, Ohio.

Bess will be remembered as a woman of grace, determination, and generous spirit. Kind to everyone, she moved through life with tenacity and an extraordinary work ethic. Those who knew her experienced her warmth not only in grand gestures, but also in the steady way she welcomed others and made them feel at ease.

For many years, Bess was a hair stylist at Michael's Salon in Centerville, where she built a respected career marked by talent, dedication, and artistry. Her work earned her several awards, and her passion for her profession carried her to hair shows in Paris and New York, experiences that reflected both her skill and her love of beauty and design.

That creative spirit shaped every part of her life. Bess loved birds and animals, especially her dogs, Halo, Hank, and Heidi, and held a special affection for horses and the Kentucky Derby. She enjoyed traveling, visiting museums, and exploring antiques. She found pleasure in gardening, fine dining, art, and painting, and she was also a talented pianist. One of her greatest joys was restoring her 1840 home while preserving its historic character. It was a labor of love, and one in which she took deep pride. Her home was featured in magazines, and much of the restoration work she proudly accomplished herself. Over numerous years, she also participated in the garden and home tours in Lebanon, where she won awards and shared the beauty of her work with others.

Bess created a home that was not only beautiful, but deeply welcoming. Each year, she opened it to family and friends for a lavish Christmas gathering, complete with catered food, champagne, multiple Christmas trees, and beautiful décor. These celebrations became cherished occasions, reflecting her gift for hospitality and her delight in bringing people together in elegance and joy.

She is survived by her sons, Steve Downey and Aaron Downey; by her grandchildren, Jacob, Hudson, and Ava Downey; and by her nieces, Gretchen (Kent) Waller and Tracy Hale. In their lives, and in the memories they carry forward, Bess leaves a legacy of creativity, perseverance, and love of home and family.

She was preceded in death by her father, Earl Holman; her mother, Bessie Holman; and her sister, Sue Hale.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 7, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Centerville, 820 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton, Ohio 45459.

Bess Gose will be remembered for the beauty she created, the kindness she extended, and the spirited, hardworking life she lived so fully.

To share a memory of Bess or to leave a special message for her family, please visit the Guestbook below. If you wish to send flowers to Bess' services, we kindly request all white flowers.