Gloria Ophelia Bell

Gloria Ophelia Bell, known to her loved ones as Gloria, Mom or Aunt Gloria peacefully passed away on August 15, 2023, at the age of 88 in Des Allemands, LA. She was born on March 6, 1935, in Charleston, SC.

Gloria was a loving mother and the head of the household during the times her husband was away either serving in the U.S. Navy or working offshore as a commercial diver in the oilfield. She opened her heart and home to those in need, often welcoming friends who were going through difficult times and treating them as her own children. Gloria was a compassionate volunteer and befriended many elderly couples from her church, providing support by accompanying them to doctor visits, grocery shopping, or simply spending time together. She cherished these relationships deeply, and each loss left a lasting impact on her.

In terms of education, Gloria attended Waverly High School in Waverly, TN, and later pursued further studies including airline hostess training from Central Technical institute Kansas city Mo. Real estate training from Century 21 in New Orleans La. And graduated with honors from Evangeline Vocational/Technical College, specializing in word processing operations.

During her career, Gloria made significant contributions to various fields. While her husband served in the U.S. Navy, she served in Special Services as a Red Cross instructor, teaching water safety and swimming to military dependents. Her classes ranged from water adjustment to senior life-saving techniques. Gloria also worked as an office assistant and receptionist at the Offices of Gordie White Esq.

Gloria found solace and spiritual nourishment at Parks Baptist Church in St. Martinville, LA, where she worshipped with her fellow congregants.

Gloria had a passion for sewing and oil painting in which she excelled. These hobbies allowed her to express her creativity and bring joy to those around her.

In memory of Gloria Ophelia Bell, contributions can be made to Toys for Tots, an organization she held close to her heart as she gathered and delivered Toys every year to the Marine reserve detachment in Lafayette La.

The Ourso Funeral Home in Gonzales, LA, is assisting the family with the arrangements for Gloria's funeral. For further information or to offer condolences, please contact the funeral home directly.

Gloria will be deeply missed by her daughter, Vanessa Ann Bell (Wayne Soudelier), and her son, Richard Keith Bell (Beverly Bell), Grandchildren Vaughn and Virginia Bell and her nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her son, Van Thomas Bell Jr., her husband, Van Thomas Bell Sr., her father, Fred Albert Holseberg Sr., her mother, Martha Cleo Holseberg, her sister, Alice Beatrice Holseberg, and her brother, Fred Albert Holseberg Jr.

May Gloria Ophelia Bell's soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew her.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.oursofh.com for the Bell family.