Catherine S. Bell

The family of Catherine Stewart Bell mournfully announces her passing on September 2, 2025. Catherine passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home in Orlando, FL, where she was surrounded by beloved family, just as she'd hoped and intended.

As a first-generation American citizen, she was born in The Bronx, NY, on July 15, 1924, to Jeanie Hamilton and William Stewart. From a young age, she showed remarkable determination and ambition. She attended Evander Childs High School, proudly becoming the first member of her family to graduate. Determined to further her education, she was accepted into the prestigious executive secretarial program at Katharine Gibbs Business School, where she earned her secretarial certification, a distinguished accomplishment for women of her time.

Following college, Catherine remained in the Bronx, NY, where she married the love of her life, Samuel David Bell, on Sunday, June 2, 1946, at The First Presbyterian Church of Williamsburg. She then began her career as a secretary and worked in several areas of business before finding her true calling in education. She joined the Valhalla School District, first as secretary to Superintendent Dr. Marquette, then as secretary to the principals of Columbus Avenue Elementary and Virginia Road Elementary. These were among Catherine's most cherished years as a career woman. There was nothing she enjoyed more than being surrounded by the vigor and joy of children.

Catherine put her career aside for a while to focus on raising her children, dedicating herself fully as a mother and homemaker. Catherine's heart knew no boundaries when it came to her family. During the holiday season, she worked at Macy's Department Store Toy Department, doing everything she could to make Christmas morning magical and unforgettable. Filing her family's hearts with joy brought her deep fulfillment, a reflection of the boundless love and unwavering commitment she had for those she held dear.

After the untimely passing of her husband in 1980, she relocated to Orlando, FL, with her youngest son, David. There, she resumed her professional career as a dedicated secretary, ultimately retiring from AT&T in Orlando in 1987, after a fulfilling career.

Catherine and Dave had four children together: William David Bell, Barbara Jean (Bell) Massie, Carol-Lynn (Bell) Ward, and David Scott Bell. She had eleven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.

During Catherine's leisure, she found pleasure in bowling, ceramics, and drawing. She was a member of White Plains Bowling League for many years. Some of her proudest creations were a ceramic Santa Claus statue and a beautiful ceramic Christmas tree. Every holiday season, she would draw a traditional Santa face on the living room mirror, sharing her creativity and holiday spirit with everyone around her.

Catherine was devoted to her family and faith. As a member of White Plains Presbyterian Church, she taught Sunday school, where once again, she was surrounded by the joy of children.

Catherine went by many names: Kay, Mommy, Grandma, Maga, GG, Grandma Bell, Mema, Gram, Aunt Kay, and Miss Kay. She is fondly remembered as a second mother by all the neighborhood children in Valhalla. To all who knew her, they knew her love for family, her wit, and her sense of humor. Catherine was a magnetic woman who attracted friends wherever she went. She was even idolized at her local Publix, where the staff welcomed her with a 100th birthday surprise! Her charm, wit, and genuineness drew people in and made a lasting impression on anyone touched by her presence. That love was evident at her 100th birthday celebration just last year, with a guest list of friends and family traveling from over six states to celebrate her.

Kay was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel David Bell; her daughter, Barbara Jean Bell Massie; and her grandson, Hunter Massie. Her legacy continues through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

While we are so very saddened by her passing, there's not a single moment we spent with her that isn't cherished. We are so grateful to have had her in our lives for so many years, and we are blessed that she passed peacefully in her home, surrounded by those who love her, just the way she dreamed.

She will be remembered for her unwavering integrity, quick wit, and deep love for her family. Her charm and humor, accompanied by the warmth of her smile, will continue to light our hearts through her memory.

There will be a private burial at Kensico Cemetery, Valhalla, NY, where she will be laid to eternal rest with her beloved husband, Dave. At a future date, TBD, the family is planning a Celebration of Life service in Orlando, FL.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her name to:

St. Jude's Children's Hospital, a charity she was most passionate about.

Address: 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105

Email: forstjude.org

One of Catherine's favorite quotes by poet Robert Browning:

Grow old along with me!

The best is yet to be,

The last of life,

For which the First was made.