Norma Jean Bell

Born on October 10, 1938, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Elmira and Isaiah Taylor Sr., Norma was the eldest of six children. She cherished her role as the big sister, and whenever she and her siblings were together, the air was always filled with laughter, storytelling and love.

A proud graduate of Vashon High School. She carried a lifelong passion for learning, continuously seeking knowledge and growth through her career and leadership roles.

Norma dedicated much of her life to others, working alongside her dear friend Bertha Gilkey, a renowned housing and civil rights advocate. Her dedication and tenacity led her to ascend the ranks at the St. louis Housing Authority, where she earned numerous accolades and ultimately became Director. Her work improved the lives of many, ensuring that families had access to safe and fair housing.

Norma married Prentiss Holmes Sr. and later Maurice Bell, and she was a loving and dedicated mother to Prentiss Holmes Jr. and Wanda Bell-Brown. She was always there to provide love and support, home-cooked meals, and words of wisdom. Her children always knew that no matter what, she had their back.

After retiring, Norma moved to Indianapolis to be closer to her beloved grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She remained involved in her community, working at the Indiana 211 Family and Social Services Administration help desk, where she provided guidance and support to those in need. She also poured her heart into volunteering, serving as a nonprofit booster club member, tirelessly fundraising to support her grandchildren and countless other children in their extracurricular activities.

As grandmother Norma was heavily involved in the lives of her grandchildren. She was always present at school events, dance recitals and even participating in “play church” at home. She created special “Granny Vacations” with custom memorialized photo books to cherish the memories.

Norma had a deep love for music and dancing, and her quick wit and sense of humor made her a joy to be around. She had a gift for bringing people together, forming friendships wherever she went, and was a cherished and respected member of her family. No matter the distance, she made the effort to stay connected and be there for her loved ones.

Faith was a cornerstone of Norma’s life. She was an active member of the church throughout the years and continued her worship as a dedicated member of Ambassador Missionary Baptist Church in Indianapolis.

Norma’s legacy is one of love, service, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. She will be remembered for her warm heart, her fierce determination, and the countless lives she touched. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

She is preceded in death by her son Prentiss Holmes Jr. (Sheila) and her sisters Ethel Davie and Edith Bailey. She is survived by her loving daughter Wanda Bell-Brown (John), grandchildren Aaron and Erica Brown, and Prenasha Holmes, great-granddaughter, Laila Brown, brother Isaiah Taylor Jr., and sisters Delores Pope (Sam) and Shirley Carpenter. She is deeply loved and remembered by Beverly Acuff, who was more than a caregiver – she is family. Through her kindness, dedication, and support, Beverly became a cherished part of the Bell-Brown family, a bond that began many years ago and will endure forever.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm March 13, 2025, at Crown Hill Funeral Home with Pastor, Darryl Davis, Sr. of Ambassador Missionary Baptist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made by Crown Hill Funeral Home.