Dorothy H. Bell

Dorothy “Dot” Bell, 81, was called home to be with our Lord on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.  She departed this life peacefully from Atrium Carolina Medical Center. She was a devoted Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend.  “Dot” will always be remembered for her unwavering faith in God and love of Christmas.

Born March 14, 1944, in Charlotte NC as the 3rd of 5 children to the late James Howard Sr and the late Reola Howard. Dot was the cherished younger sister to Edna Howard and Betty Funderburk who both proceeded her in death.  She was the big sister to James Howard Jr (Cleo) and Terry Howard (Tina).

On January 30, 1965, Dot married the love of her life, Benjamin “Ben” Bell, who proceeded her in death.   The two shared a romance that lasted 57 years and yielded two children Benjamin Bell Jr (Bonnie) and Michelle Bell Stewart (Charles).

Dot worked for 30 years for the State of NC as cafeteria manager in the Charlotte Mecklenburg school system.  Her nurturing spirit manifested her desire to feed everyone who entered her door be it at school or at home.  Leaving her presence hungry was not an option. She had a gift of making the simplest of foods look good and taste even better.

Dot ‘s favorite color was pink.  She loved fresh flowers and going on vacation.  One of her most favorite things to do was to decorate for Christmas. From the 9-foot precisely decorated Christmas tree to the Christmas toilet seat covers, every room had a representation of the season. Her decorative spirit flowed to the outside as well with hundreds of lights, candy cane lined walkway and a sleigh with presents on the roof.  Each year a new adornment would be added to the decorations.

Dot leaves to cherish her memory 2 children, 2 brothers, 4 granddaughters, 6 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving relatives and friends.

St. Pope John Paul II said “Allow the light and the healing presence of Christ to shine brightly through your lives. In that way, all those who come in contact with you will discover the loving kindness of God.”

Dot was a shining light. She will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.