Bertha Jean Bell

Bertha Jean (Ford) Bell, age 81, peacefully departed this life and entered her eternal rest on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. She was born on December 22, 1944, in Osceola, Arkansas, to the late Helen Peterson and Robert Ford Jr. At a young age, she moved to Akron, Ohio, where she attended school and later graduated from Central High School.

Lovingly known as “Jean” to family and friends, she was known for her generosity, kindness, warm spirit, and unforgettable smile. Jean had a heart devoted to caring for others and found joy in nurturing her family. She was an amazing cook and gracious host who loved bringing loved ones together. In her spare time, she enjoyed watching sports and game shows, and her television was almost always tuned to ESPN when her favorite programs were not on.

In 1966, Jean met the love of her life, the late Bishop Robert D. Bell Sr. The two were united in marriage on June 22, 1968, and from this loving union came two children, Yontami T. Jones and Robert D. Bell Jr. Jean treasured her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She poured endless love into her grandchildren, Paris Caldwell, Essence Bell, and Evan Simpson, and took great pride in being the great-grandmother of Dominique McKinney.

Alongside her husband, Jean faithfully served in ministry for many years. She proudly served as First Lady of House of Prayer for All People for 28 years and was also a devoted member of the Mothers Board, where many lovingly knew her as “Mother Bell.” Her life reflected her commitment to serving God, supporting her church family, and uplifting those around her.

Outside of her church responsibilities, Jean could often be found cheering from the sidelines at her children’s games during their time at Kenmore High School. She was their biggest supporter and remained just as dedicated when her children later became coaches at their alma mater. Whether running the concession stand, encouraging players, or cheering from the crowd, Mother Bell’s presence was always felt. She was also a devoted fan of Cleveland sports teams and enjoyed supporting her hometown teams with enthusiasm.

Bertha Jean Bell will be remembered as a woman of faith, strength, compassion, and unwavering love. She lived a life devoted to God, her family, and her community. Her legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Ford Jr. and Helen Peterson; her siblings, Roosevelt Peterson, Glen Peterson, Larry Jacobs, Sammy Ford, Karen Ford, and Dorothy Lucy; her beloved husband, Bishop Robert D. Bell Sr.; and her children, Robert D. Bell Jr. and Yontami T. Jones.

She leaves to cherish her memory her siblings, Eddie Lee Nalls, Peggie Peterson, Angela Smith, Daron (Pearlette) Jacobs, Pam Douglas, Samuel Ford, Mary Ford, and Albert Ford; her grandchildren, Paris Caldwell, Essence Bell, and Evan Simpson; her great-grandson, Dominique McKinney; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.