Ms. Evelyn Conchetta Bell

Evelyn "Moochie" Conchetta Bell, 90, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2019. Born on February 12, 1929, she was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry and Mary Magdalene (Corbett) Bell, Sr. Born on the eve of the Great Depression, Evelyn's formal education was limited to primary school, but that did not stop her from increasing her literacy to that which could be described as beyond graduate level. Crossword and word search puzzles were her favorite way to challenge her mind, and she enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Evelyn wasn't one to work for anyone else, expected hard work from those she loved and was always willing to help others in need. She would share her last, caring for children, those who were ill, as well as elderly family and friends as long as she was able. Her life was a true example that we are blessed to be a blessing; and she was, indeed, a blessing to this world. While not a member of a formal church, Evelyn presented her love of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ to all she would meet. When others were going through troubles, she would tell them, "Always remember the 23rd Psalm. The Lord is my shepherd..." There was no question of her faith. Her family is grateful for her life and will honor her legacy of faith, charity, and love. She was predeceased by several brothers and sisters in her early years, but grew into adulthood with sister, Marion Bell, and brother, Harry Bell, Jr., telling stories of their lives. She also grieved the loss of her fifth born, Francis, who died just before the age of two; a beloved son-in-law, Michael James, Sr.; as well as two grandsons, Maurice Bell (Thomasine) and David Claybreon Bell (Marion). Left to cherish her memory are her children; Maurice Bell (Edith), Carroll Epps (Joyce), Joseph Epps (Tammy), Thomasine Bell James (Michael, Sr., d. 2015), Marion Bell Stephens (Freddie), and Bruce Bell (Tammie). She will also be remembered by her 15 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren (with a set of twins on the way, making the count 13!), as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends in numbers that are immeasurable. The family would like to thank the staff of the Sentara Nursing Facility of Portsmouth, Virginia for their compassion and care in ensuring an environment Evelyn described as her apartment, her home.

Ms. Evelyn Conchetta Bell

February 12, 1929 - September 17, 2019