Dorothy J. Bell

Dorothy Jean Bell, age 75, passed away on Monday, October 10, 2011, after battling breast cancer for five years. Dorothy was born in LeFlore, Oklahoma on June 23, 1936, to Herman Hand and Odessa Green Hand. Shortly after her birth the family moved to Fresno, California. Dorothy was a graduate of Roosevelt High School and later returned to school to graduate from Fresno City College and continue her education with courses at Fresno State College. She retired from Fresno County Juvenile Hall after 27 years as a Senior Group Counselor. She enjoyed her work and touched the lives of many young people going through a difficult time.

Dorothy and her husband Les traveled the United States, Canada, Mexico and the world during their retirement.They made many friends on their travels. Dorothy was a night owl who loved to read and always had a good book on hand. She also enjoyed shopping for collectibles and antiques, especially Salt and Pepper shakers, at one time owning over 1,000 pairs. However, her greatest pleasure was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Dorothy always made each holiday a special time for her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her son, Michael Bell.

Dorothy is survived by Les Bell, her husband of 57 years; sister, Margaret Osier of Vancouver, Wa.; brother, Harold Hand and his wife Barbara; daughter, Linda Gaad and her husband Bill; grandchildren, Jodie Weaver and her husband Chad; Brian Gaad, Jamie Bell, and Julie Bell; and great-grand daughter, Rylie Weaver. In addition, Dorothy leaves behind several loving nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends who will miss her dearly.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may made to Hinds Hospice, 1616 W. Shaw Ave., Suite B-6, Fresno, Ca. 93711-3513, who compassionately helped care for Dorothy; or to Friends of the Fresno County Public Library, P.O. Box 4523, Fresno, Ca. 93744-4523.