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Margaret “Jean” Bell
March 14, 1941 – June 23, 2026
Margaret “Jean” Bell, 85, made her way home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Her husband Carlton was always by her side, and her children cared for her with the same thoughtfulness, compassion, and kindness she had shown others throughout her life.
Jean was a devoted wife and mother and an avid crafter who was always creating something special for someone – a table decoration, a gift for church, family, or community. Over the years, she worked as a teacher and bookkeeper before retiring from the NC Welcome Center in 2025. Her love of flowers led to her most notable career success as the owner of Bell’s Florist. This often meant late nights delivering arrangements before church or dinner. A true multitasker, she would crochet as Carlton drove to the next destination, always seeking ways to make others feel special – whether on an ordinary day or in times of need. She created her own greeting cards using stamps and added crocheted flowers for a unique touch you simply could not buy in a store. She mailed them often, especially to her grandchildren, to let them know she was thinking of them.
On special occasions, which she often coordinated, everyone looked forward to Jean’s cakes and other baked goodies. She loved her family deeply and was immensely proud of them all. She became the historian for both the Powell and Bell families, spending countless hours researching and documenting their origins. Her happiest moments were spent with loved ones at special occasions -especially the annual Powell family reunion in Hertford, NC – or anytime she could dance with her lifelong love, Carlton.
Jean is reunited in heaven with her loved ones who preceded her; parents, William C. and Blanche W. Powell; daughter, Brenda Bell Mosesl; and siblings, Calvin, Leon, and Norma Rae Powell.
Jean is survived by her lifelong love and devoted husband of 65 years, Carlton B. Bell, Jr.; sister, Vivian Register; children, Jo Ann Konstanzer (Robert) and George Bell (Stephanie); cherished grandchildren, Corey (Sara), Max, Brianne (Neil), Jack (Georgia), and Austin; and great-grandchild, Reef (with a second expected in August, Winslow).
A viewing at South Mills Church of Christ will be held on Monday, June 29, beginning at 10:00am, with a service at 11:00am, followed by a reception. A private graveside service will be held for the immediate family. Please share a message of comfort with the Bell family via the online register at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.
Condolences
To Carlont Bell and Family I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR THE PASSING OF YOUR SWEET WIFE SHE WAS VERY SWEET TO ME SENT ME CARDS I REALLY APPRECIATED THEM SHE WILL BE MISSED BY EVERYONE GOD HAS GOT ANOTHER ANGEL GOD BLESS ALLOF THIS FAMILY PRAYERS ARE GOING UP FOR ALL OF YOUCARLTON RAMONA
To Carlont Bell and Family I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR THE PASSING OF YOUR SWEET WIFE SHE WAS VERY SWEET TO ME SENT ME CARDS I REALLY APPRECIATED THEM SHE WILL BE MISSED BY EVERYONE GOD HAS GOT ANOTHER ANGEL GOD BLESS ALLOF THIS FAMILY PRAYERS ARE GOING UP FOR ALL OF YOUCARLTON RAMONA