Ashley Emma Bell

Ashley Emma Bell (Wayaspa Sicawin), 36, of New London, CT, passed away suddenly on May 13, 2024. She graduated from Norwich Free Academy and was the daughter of Theodore C Bell and the late Debra Suprono Bell.

Ashley was a strong woman of character, incredibly self-reliant and intelligent. She was a supporter of the unsupported and a voice for those who could not speak for themselves. She was an avid activist of the indigenous communities as well as many other causes. Giving to no end, Ashley would continue to pour even when her own cup was empty. Her heart was steeped in generosity. She was a talented herbologist, and landscape architect. Ashley was ever making tinctures, rubs, and teas to go with care packages for those on the front lines of the Dakotas that became her family throughout her time on the reservation in support of their causes. She did landscaping work in New London County helping to create beautiful outdoor spaces.

She was a unique and intriguing individual having an intense love of animals. Over the years, she had many cats, dogs, rabbits, frogs, snails, hermit crabs, and even a snake named Earl. Her love of animals and plants may have only been rivaled by her love of music, art and culture. There was very little judgment that lived in her heart with the exception of what she deemed to be wrong or right.

Ashley was truly a warrior of the people she loved and an irreplaceable part of our community.

She is survived by her father, Theodore C Bell and partner, Carol Richards of Coventry, RI; Susan Bell Wurtz of North Kingstown, RI; James C Wurtz of Cranston, RI and Justin C Wurtz of Southington, CT. Calling Hours will be held on SAturday June 8, 2024 in Fulton-Theroux Funeral Home, 181 Ocean Ave., New London, CT from 10:00 until 11:00 leading to a Memorial Service at 11:00 in the funeral home.