Obituary of Jean Whittaker Bell

BELL -It is with great sadness that the family announces the death of JEAN WHITTAKER BELL (nee Cathcart), age 88, suddenly at home in Sarnia on August 1, 2013. Beloved wife of the late James Bell (2004). Loving mother of Lesley Bell, St. Catharines, David Bell & his wife Alison, Toronto, Judith Naylor & her husband Brian, Cambridge and John Bell & his wife Marni, Fort Saskatchewan. Proud grandmother of Michael, Stephen and Kevin Little, and Jordan Bell, who will all miss her greatly. Predeceased by her parents Dr. John & Amy Cathcart of Ottawa. Jean had an active and happy childhood in Ottawa. After graduating from the Ottawa Ladies' College and Glebe Colligiate, she enlisted in the Navy as a Wren. As a wireless operator during World War II, she located and identified an enemy submarine in the St Lawrence River. After leaving the Navy, Jean attended Queen's University in Kingston, to take a degree in Languages. She chose to give up a promising career with the Bank of Canada to marry the love of her life, Jim Bell. Together, they raised 4 children, and welcomed 4 grandsons into the family circle. Jean enjoyed serving her Church through the ACW, Altar Guild, Choir, Bible Study and Parish Council. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Jean's life will be held at Canon Davis Memorial Anglican Church, 380 Russell St N., Sarnia on Friday, August 9, 2013 at 1:00 with the Rev. Ray Jenkins and the Venerable Dr. Gordon J.J. Simmons officiating. Arrangements entrusted to McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 519-344-3131. As an expression of sympathy friends who wish may send memorial donations to St. Joseph's Hospice, 475 Christina St. N., Sarnia, N7T 5W3. Messages of condolence & memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com. A tree will be planted in memory of Jean Bell in the McKenzie & Blundy Memorial Forest. Dedication service Sunday, September 15th, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at the Wawanosh Wetlands Conservation Area