Phyllis Bell

April 20, 1921 – October 1, 2025

Phyllis Bell, née Fastbinder, passed away peacefully at the age of 104, after a long and loving life.

Born and raised in London, England, Phyllis came of age during World War II. After the war, she emigrated to the United States, embracing the adventure with a deep love of travel and discovery. Her journey took her across the country, eventually landing in New York City, where she met her future husband, Hiller Bell. The two married, settled in New Jersey, and raised their daughters, Norma and Hazel.

Phyllis worked for many years as a dedicated bookkeeper, known for her sharp mind and steady presence. Outside of work, she found joy in simple pleasures. She enjoyed listening to big band music, reading murder mysteries, doing sudoku puzzles and drinking a good single malt scotch.

She had an unshakable positive outlook and a lifelong curiosity about the world. She continued to travel throughout her life, always finding joy in new places and experiences. Her warmth, resilience, and optimism touched everyone who knew her.

Phyllis spent many happy years between New Jersey and Florida. In her later years, she returned to New Jersey to live with her daughter, surrounded by the family she cherished most.

She is survived by her daughter Hazel, son-in-law Venkat Puranapanda, and her beloved grandchildren, Arjun Puranapanda and Nisha Puranapanda who brought her endless pride and joy.

A graveside service will be held at Mount Hebron Cemetery, located at 130-04 Horace Harding Expy, New York, NY 11367, United States. The service is scheduled for Friday October 3, 2025, at 2:00 pm. Friends and family to meet at the office at Mt. Hebron by 1:45pm

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to a charity of your choice in Phyllis’s memory.