Jean Mae Bell

Jean Mae Bell, 90, a humble, caring, and loving wife, mother, and grandmother, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at her home. She was born on July 27, 1935, in Cambridge, New York to the late Foster and Elsie (Keys) Petteys.

Jean's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a faithful and devoted daughter of Christ, and there was no doubt in her heart about her eternal home.

Jean led a fulfilling and fruitful life, following her graduation from Greenwich Central School in 1954, she married the love of her life Merritt Willard Bell Jr. in 1955. They were married for 63 years and had 3 children. Jean enjoyed ballroom dancing with her husband, a hobby that brought her immense joy and served as a testament to their enduring love. She was stay at home mom who worked hard, always putting her family’s needs before her own. She was also instrumental in supporting her husband, Merritt, in his welding business.

At home she loved canning fruits and vegetable, enjoyed the gifts of God’s creation and its various plants and trees. Jean loved animals, cooking, needle point, crocheting, sewing and she was exceptional at drawing, stemming from her childhood dream of becoming an Architect.

What mattered most to Jean was her faith and her family, she would read her bible daily and it never left her side. She now rests in the comfort of God’s loving arms.

Jean is survived by her children, Merritt Patrick (Shari) Bell, Julie (David) Vidalier and Mark (Donna) Bell; her beloved grandchildren, Justin, Melinda, and Megan; great-granchildren, Lexus, Henry, and Maddy.

In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Merritt Willard Bell Jr., and her brother, Skip Petteys.

Jean’s life was a testament of selfless love and unwavering faith. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and devotion that will continue to inspire her family and those who knew her. As we mourn the physical loss of Jean, we also celebrate her life and the love, joy, and faith she shared with all of us.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 7 pm on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Flynn Bros, Inc. Funeral Home, 80 Main St, Greenwich, NY, 12834.

Graveside services for Jean will be held at 10 am the following day in the Easton Rural Cemetery.

Donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Hospital at www.stjude.org or the Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org.

In memory of Jean, we invite you to share your stories, memories, and photos on her memorial page at www.flynnbrosinc.com. In doing so, we can keep her spirit alive and remember the beautiful life she lived.