Marjorie Ann Bell

Marjorie Ann (Monte) Bell (“Ma Bell”), 100, of Muskegon, Michigan, transitioned to eternal life on June 4, 2025. Born March 21, 1925 in Racine, Wisconsin, she lived an extraordinary life marked by deep faith, creativity and, especially, love of family and friends.

A devout Catholic, Marjorie was a member of the Order of St. Benedict and an active parishioner at St. Michael's and Prince of Peace parishes. Her faith was central to her life. Marjorie was known for her powerful prayers and spent countless hours praying for anyone who asked her to intercede on their behalf. From the beginning of her married life, she dedicated herself and her family to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The family celebrated religious feasts from St. Nicholas Day to Holy Thursday with special foods and customs they fondly remember.

Marjorie's creative spirit emerged early. As a young woman in Racine, she was active as a Girl Scout, cheerleader and Pep Club President at St. Catherine's High School. Her passion for the arts led her to the Racine Theater Guild, where she distinguished herself as an actor, director and makeup artist in numerous productions. It was at the Theater Guild where she met the “only man for her”, Allen J. Bell. They were married for 60+ years.

A woman of many talents, Marjorie was a radio personality, serving as spokesperson and host of programs including "Musical Newsical" on WRJN in Racine. She was an accomplished playwright, penning original works including "The Wishing Fairy" and "The Golden Touch," an adaptation of the Midas story (published in The Instructor, January 1955).

Marjorie’s artistic pursuits extended to poetry, children's literature, visual arts and gardening. Marjorie’s poem about walking with two of her grandsons along the Muskegon Lake shore was published in the journal “Seeding the Snow” in 2021. Marjorie’s children’s books, which she wrote, illustrated and shared with family and friends include “Who Wears Wellies?”, “Willy the Worm”, and “Louie the Little Raccoon”.

As an herbalist and member of the Western Michigan Herb Society, Marjorie was instrumental in historic garden preservation projects. Those projects included the Biblical Herb Garden at St. Joseph's Parish, which resulted in a self-published booklet entitled "Herbs of the Bible” and the restoration of Root Memorial Park in downtown Muskegon. Growing up in Racine, near Lake Michigan, Marjorie developed a special love of the water, which continued throughout her life. She held women, like Margaret Drake Elliott, who protected the environment, in high regard. Marjorie also appreciated using natural elements in decorating and art, regularly gathering pussy willows, rose hips, shells, pine cones, and milkweed pods for inspiration.

Above all, Marjorie was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker who created a warm, nurturing environment for all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. Marjorie drew on her Italian roots, which she cherished, to create “famiglia” that extended beyond blood relations. She treasured her friendships, especially with her wonderful group of friends who call themselves "The Flamingos". They gathered faithfully on her front deck every Friday night in summer for many years. They shared Ma’s interest in antiques, her joy for a good thrifting find (like the two $50 bills she found in the back of a $3 picture frame!) and her penchant for rearranging furniture. Many of her adopted family members call her Mother Bell or Ma Bell. Even when she moved from her home to her apartment at The Village of the Oaks, the placard on her door said “Ma Bell”- that’s how she wanted to be known and how everyone there knew her.

Marjorie is survived by her eight children: James (Debra) Bell, Jodie (Richard) Galosy, Jon (Ann) Bell, Jeremy (Donna) Bell, Julie Bell Magnuson, Jill (Doug) Wilterdink, Jeff (Janae) Bell, and Joseph (Denise) Bell. Marjorie has 26 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Whether they call her Grandmama, Grandma, or Nonna, she has a special and treasured relationship with each. Marjorie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Allen J. Bell; daughter, Jory Bell; and grandson, John Dell (her “Summer Boy”).

Marjorie’s legacy of faith, creativity and love will continue to inspire all who know her.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 AM Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 1110 Dykstra Road, North Muskegon, MI 49445, with the Rev. Fr. Godfrey Onyekwere presiding. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the Mass on Saturday at the church. A luncheon will follow the service.

The family extends their sincerest thanks to the staff of The Village at the Oaks and Hospice for the tender and loving care they provided. Memorial Contributions may be made to The Muskegon Environmental Research & Education Society (MERES) or Trinity Health at Home Grand Haven Hospice.