Shirley Elizabeth Bell, 91, went to join her family in heaven on November 15, 2020. Shirley was born in Los Angeles, California to Herman and Georgia Eaton. She was the eldest daughter in the family of twelve which then resided in Pasadena, California. She graduated with academic honors from John Muir College (High School Division) in 1947.
She married Arthur Bell in 1948 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together while living in El Monte, California they had five children. Judy Cluster (Tim), Jane Curphey (Bob), Arthur Bell Jr. (Glenda), Joyce Alston (Noland), Diane Ferber (Bill). While raising her children she was active in the family business, along with PTA, Girl Scouts and church. She also was introduced to oil painting in an adult education class.
1972 brought a move to Grants Pass, Oregon. She studied bookkeeping at RCC and commenced a long career in the wholesale grocery business. First Broer Grocery, then Glaser Bros. and Core Mark. She organized many a picnic along with the office. Her last employment was at Harry and David where she talked about roses with fellow gardeners all over the country.
Oil Painting became her life as she shared her technical and color blending skills with her students in the BrushStrokers Art Groups in Rogue River and Grants Pass. If you were a student in her class you would always paint a barn as your first lesson. Laughter and fun accompanied every painting session. Special occasions were legendary.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, siblings and three of her daughters, Diane, Judy and Jane. She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Arthur, and children, Arthur Jr. and Joyce. Also, ten grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. Her greatest accomplishments! All who miss her passion for life and enjoyment of family.
Many thanks to Dr. Rondeau and staff for their care.
She will be laid to rest at the Eagle Point National Cemetery with a Celebration of Life to be held in the summer of 2021.
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