Obituary
BELL, Deborah Jean (nee Humphrys)
Wrapped in song, family and love, Deborah Jean Bell passed away peacefully on January 8th, 2022. She is survived by her loving husband, Charles. Beloved mother to Matthew (Renata) of Mississauga, Brendon (Dana) of Victoria, Caley Hatch (James) of Sauble Beach and Ashlyn Ventura (Curtis) of Southampton. Nana will be dearly missed by her grandchildren, Isla, Ainsley, Lincoln, Ryan, Brooklyn, Evelyn and Chay, sisters Colleen Maass (Eric) and Mary Beth Anderson (Jim), brother-in-laws (Paul, Mark, Tom), sister-in-laws (Marianne, Susan) and many nieces and nephews.
Debbie was born in Stratford, Ontario on April 15, 1954, to the late William (1997) and Jean Humphrys (nee Rawlings). Soon after, the family moved to London, Ontario where her younger sisters were born. From a young age, Debbie began developing a strong dedication to her faith and love of children and music; all of which became her life’s greatest passions.
While attending the University of Western Ontario, she met the love of her life, Charles Bell. As students, Charles and Debbie married in 1974. Debbie earned her Bachelor of Musical Arts in 1975 and Bachelor of Education in 1976. Charles and Debbie went on to become educators in Bruce County and lived a life devoted to their children, community, traveling and their shared love of music for forty-seven years.
Debbie will be remembered for her dedication to her community, love of music, and boundless energy. Upon retiring from teaching at Saugeen District Secondary School, she volunteered with PRANCE, Performing Arts of Saugeen Shores, The Canadian Big Band Celebration Committee, the Port Elgin Missionary Church nursery, and accompanied music students on the piano. For many years, Debbie also enjoyed performing as a cellist with the Georgian Bay Symphony and singing in the Makin’ Waves Choir.
Debbie never passed up an opportunity to celebrate life’s occasions. She enjoyed ice-cream runs, reading beachside, swimming, campfires, morning coffee on the porch, cheering on her grandchildren, and song.
She leaves a legacy of love, kindness, faith, and relentless optimism.
Due to current restrictions, the immediate family will be gathering to grieve privately. Details regarding a public graveside service and celebration to honor Debbie will follow in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Chapman House, Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation or the Saugeen Memorial Foundation’s CT Campaign.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to staff at Princess Margaret Hospital, Grey Bruce Health Services and Chapman House for their exceptional care, and are very thankful for all the expressions of love and support from our local community members, friends and family.
April 15 1954 – January 8 2022 Age 67
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Debbie Bell April 15 1954 – January 8 2022 Age 67..
Décès pour la Ville:Southampton, Province: Ontario