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Judge Shawn Delayne Bessey
1964-2025
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Judge Shawn Delayne Bessey, a resident of Hughson, CA, passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Doctors Medical Center in Modesto, California. He was 61. Diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2017, Judge Bessey faced his illness with remarkable strength until his peaceful passing, surrounded by brothers Randy, Lance, Bradly, and Brandon; best friend Wade Burdick; cherished son Rowan; and Rowan’s mother and grandparents, Amy, Dan, and Margaret Middleton.

Elected to the Superior Court of Stanislaus County in 2010, Judge Bessey diligently served until his death. Remembered as dedicated, intelligent, and fair, Judge Bessey was admired for his sharp humor, storytelling, practicality in law, and devotion to court staff. His legal career began at the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office as a victim advocate, rising to Senior Deputy District Attorney before joining the bench.

Born January 9, 1964, in Lindsay, CA, to the late Donald and Nancy Bessey, he graduated from Lindsay High School, earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminology from Fresno State University, and obtained his Juris Doctor from Humphreys College.

Judge Bessey enjoyed poker, golf, fishing, hunting, and live music, but his greatest joy was fatherhood. He was deeply proud of Rowan, age 10, and actively participated in his son’s baseball, soccer, Jiu-Jitsu activities, and enjoyed teaching him fishing and card games.

He is survived by his son, Rowan; brothers Randy, Lance, Bradly, and Brandon; and many loved ones and friends.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 15, at 11:00 a.m. at CrossPoint Community Church, 1309 12th Street, Modesto, CA. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Modesto Gospel Mission (mymission.org/donate) or UCSF Foundation (giving.ucsf.edu).