Rita Gaye Bell

Raised in Calhan, Colorado, Rita was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother whose quick wit and joyful spirit brought smiles to everyone around her. She loved sports—a passion that began while attending Calhan School District RJ-1, where she played basketball—and she cherished time with her family.

On January 12, 1968, Rita married Richard “Dick” Lee Bell, and together they built a wonderful life. They especially enjoyed evenings dancing at the Navajo Hogan, and music was always at the heart of their home. Her children and grandchildren will always remember music playing, laughter filling the room, and Rita singing and dancing with them.

In 1976, Rita and Dick founded Handy Glass Man, a mobile glass business they built side by side. Their son, Troy Lee Bell, later joined them, making it a true family business.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Richard “Dick” Lee Bell, and her son, Troy Lee Bell.

She is survived by her daughters, Gayle Ledom (Lynn Ledom) and Karla Bell (Paul Montoya); her siblings, Virgil Mitchell (Lorraine Mitchell) and Gloria Fox (Larry Fox); her grandchildren, Amber Tanner, Jed Ledom, Shannon Fildes, and Sophie Montoya; her great-grandchildren, Brandi Tanner, Kaitlynn Tanner, Hunter Fildes, Landon Tanner, and Claysen Fildes; and her great-great-grandson, Wyatt Nathaniel.

Rita’s love of music, laughter, and family will be remembered by all who knew and loved her.

A memorial service celebrating Rita’s life will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Gardens in Colorado Springs.