Clara Leimomi (Borges) Bell

Clara Leimomi Bell (Borges), a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, peacefully passed away on February 22, 2024, at the age of 101. Momi was a deeply-rooted member of Ke Ola Pono No Nā Kūpuna, providing 30 years of service. She was also a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and a shining example of faith, compassion, and service.

Born on December 28, 1922, in Kaueleau (what we now know as Opihikao, Puna), Momi’s early life was marked with its share of trials and tribulations. Momi’s twin sister, Ruby, perished shortly after birth. Years later, her mother died during childbirth and the young siblings were relocated to Keaukaha to live with their single father.

After marrying Kenneth Bell in 1944, Momi dedicated her life to raising their three children, Leona, Kenny, and Jerry. Her selflessness and kindness extended beyond her family, as she opened her heart and home to countless friends, neighbors, and community members in need.

Throughout her life, Momi embodied the principles of her faith, serving others with unwavering dedication. She served in various church positions, including Primary President for the island, Relief Society president, and Teacher Development teacher for Keaukaha Branch/Ward. Her devotion to the LDS church spanned decades. In her early years, she was responsible for cleaning the church when it was located at Onekahakaha Beach. She would sit on the handle bars of her brother Joe’s bike holding the broom, mop and bucket while he peddled them from Onekahakaha from their home on Desha Avenue. Her love for genealogy and family history led her to spend countless hours researching and indexing records, ensuring that families could be sealed together for eternity.

Momi’s legacy includes a family that cherishes her example, countless lives touched by her kindness, and a community that will forever remember her compassion and devotion. Her passing leaves a void, but her impact will continue to inspire generations to come, and her reunion with her loved ones who preceded her in death is celebrated by all who knew her.

Momi was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth K. Bell and son, Kenneth K. Bell, Jr. Surviving are her daughter Leona (Dean) Schroeder of Hawaiian Paradise Park, and son Jerry (Pamela) Bell of Hilo. Momi leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Viewing will be held at 9:00 AM Thursday, March 14, 2024, followed by the Funeral Service at 10:30 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1373 Kīlauea Avenue, Hilo. Burial to follow at Homelani Memorial, with a casual luncheon to start right after the service for those unable to make it to Homelani for burial. Family will return to Church following burial.