Betty Jean Bell

With profound sadness, our family announces the passing of Betty Jean Bell, 91, of Liberty, MO. Betty passed in her sleep on January 2, 2026, surrounded by family. She joyfully went to be with her Lord and Savior, as well as her husband, Ted Bell, who preceded her in death.

Betty was born on June 15, 1934, in Kansas City, MO to John and Jean Helm. When she was 14, she went to live with her uncle and aunt, Homer and Mary Young, in Liberty. She attended Liberty High School, graduating in 1952. It was there that she met Ted Bell, the love of her life.

Betty attended the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO, where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Commercial Education and was active in the Pi Phi sorority. Upon her graduation in 1956, she and Ted were married. She followed him to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Fort Bliss, Texas. At Fort Bliss, Betty worked as a civil servant for the US Army. When Ted completed his time in the Army, he and Betty returned to Liberty, where they settled for the rest of their lives.

Through her adult life, Betty was highly active in her community and the Liberty United Methodist Church. She worked in a variety of jobs in support of her community, including the Liberty School District, serving as the elected Clerk for the City of Liberty, and as an administrative assistant at Liberty Hospital. In each of these jobs, Betty was renowned for her unwavering dedication, professionalism, and integrity. Since 1967, Betty was active in the Philanthropic Educational Organization Sisterhood (PEO), Chapter DT, and served in many leadership positions including Chapter President.

As loyal Royals fans, Betty and Ted had season tickets for many years. Later, Betty never missed a game on TV. Betty and her husband were faithful members of the Liberty United Methodist Church and Betty sang in the choir for an incredible 67 years, earning her the coveted title of "Choir Mom."

Betty Bell is survived by her son, Jim Bell, his wife Josie, and their children, Tessa and Hunter; her daughter, Martie Phillips, her husband David, and their daughter, Heather; her daughter, Mary Jean Neuenswander, her husband Matt, and their children, Jake, TJ, and Holly; her brother, Michael Seck, and his wife, Joan; her cousin, Jim Young, and his wife, Ann; and seven great-grandchildren, with one on the way. In addition, she is survived by many other relatives, close friends, and members of her church and PEO.

A formal service commemorating the life and legacy of Betty Bell will take place on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Liberty United Methodist Church, 1001 Sunset Avenue, Liberty, MO. Visitation will begin at 2 p.m. and will be followed by a 3 p.m. service. Betty will be laid to rest in White Chapel Cemetery, alongside her husband, Ted, in a private ceremony at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Betty's name to the Liberty United Methodist Church.

To leave condolences for Betty's family, or fond memories you have with her, please visit ChurchArcherPasley.com, as arrangements are under direction of Church Archer Pasley Funeral Home, 816-781-2000.