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Richard “Buzz” Bessette, 66, of Powells Point, died June 21, 2020. He was born in El Paso, Texas to Richard Bessette and the late Georgia Lee Bessette. Over his career, he performed with Helicopter, George and the Diminished 5th, Dawn of Atlantis, The Stingrays, East Coast Express Jazz Band, Nite Life Review, as a solo act at the Sea Ranch, The Crowd and The Bellhops.  He also played piano and was the musical director at Mighty Wind United Methodist Church and played with the Outer Banks Music Showcase.

He was preceded in death by mother Georgia Lee Bessette. He is survived by his father, Richard “Dick” Bessette of Cape Coral, Fla., son Ricky Bessette and wife Hazel of Suffolk, Va., daughter Lindsay Epstein and husband Kevin of Gloucester, Va., grandchildren Leah, Elias and Benjamin Epstein brother Bob Bessette and wife Debby of Hampton, Va., sisters Janet Zapolski, Linda Martinez, and Tracy Luna of Powells Point and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In true Buzz form, instead of a traditional service, he wanted a party to celebrate his life.  Because of today’s pandemic, a celebration date and location will be announced at a later time.

Twiford Funeral Home, Elizabeth City is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.TwifordFH.com.

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