In Loving Memory of Ms. Honey D. Bell

May 12, 1942 ~ November 1, 2026

Some people pass through life quietly. Others leave footprints so deep that generations are shaped by their presence. Our beloved mother was one of those extraordinary women.

She was strong, confident, educated, encouraging, and devoted to a life of service. A woman of unwavering conviction, she dedicated herself to nurturing and uplifting others. She lovingly raised six children of her own, welcomed a bonus daughter into her heart, and helped guide a nephew, a niece, and three sons whose lives were forever enriched by her wisdom, discipline, and love.

She built her community the same way she built her family: with love, generosity, life lessons, and her famous pound cake. She possessed an uncanny ability to see people exactly where they were in life and encourage them toward where they could become. She spoke honestly, stood firmly in her beliefs, and never wavered in her authenticity.

As many heard her say, “You can change a lot of things, but you cannot change me.”

For her, the words “no” and “can’t” were simply unacceptable. She challenged those around her with a different message: “You can” and “You will.” Those words became a source of motivation, confidence, and perseverance for countless family members and friends.

She was truly a force to encounter. As unique as the beautiful flowers that adorned the front of her home, she brought color, life, and beauty wherever she went. She never hesitated to remind you exactly who you were talking to if a conversation became a little too bold. And when life required a stronger lesson, she wasn’t afraid to stir the bowl of your life with “Miss Meany” – and if you know, you know.

She lived her life unapologetically and out loud. She embraced every season with courage and determination, continuing to inspire others until she no longer could. Even during hospice care, she remained steadfast in her purpose, offering encouragement, sharing wisdom, and praying with those whom God placed in her path.

Many say no one is perfect. To those who knew her best, she was perfectly herself. She was genuine, authentic, and unwavering. You could take her as she was or leave her alone, but she would never pretend to be anyone else.

Her beauty radiated from the inside out. Though small in stature, she stood as tall as the Empire State Building in strength and character. She loved as deeply as the ocean and trusted God completely to guide, sustain, comfort, and keep her throughout her life’s journey.

A young child once said at his mother’s funeral, “You’re technically only dead when you are forgotten.” Those words ring especially true today. Our mother will continue to live in the hearts, memories, lessons, and laughter of everyone she touched because she will never be forgotten.

She leaves to cherish her memory her six children: Antoinette E. Claytor, Kim M. West, Kenneth M. Bell, Frankie D. Bell-Griffin (Carlton), Richard D. Bell (Shetoria), and Chanieca L. Hudson (Cortez); her beloved bonus daughter, Angela M. Bell; her brother, Robert D. Lyons; her aunt, Karen Burketh; her best friends Delois Jackson (niece); and Nellie Davis. Mom has a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends who were blessed to know and love her.

Though her earthly journey has ended, her legacy of faith, determination, service, unconditional love, and unforgettable wisdom will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to call her Mother, Aunt Honey, Grandma Honey, Ms. Honey Bell, Family, or Friend or just Honey Bell!!

Well done, good and faithful servant. 

“Mommy will live on, because she will not be forgotten