Obituaries

Jane Bell

Photo of Jane Bell
Jane Huggins Bell, known universally as "The Queen," and "Mama Jane" by her grandchildren, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2017, with her beloved husband J at her side at their home in Searcy. Jane was born June 6, 1938, in Slaton, Texas, to Fred and Laura Huggins. She was a proud graduate of Little Rock Central High School, and it was in Little Rock where she met a young medical student who became the great love of her life. She and J Bell married in 1960 and shared almost six decades together before her death. After several years living in Quanah, Texas, Jane and J moved to Searcy in 1969, where they raised three sons. Despite her royal status, Mama Jane taught her sons how to water ski, allowed for all manner of pets from ducks and rabbits to dogs, snakes and gerbils, and endured countless football practices, tae kwon do tournaments, bicycle ramps, and impromptu afternoon parties at their home near Searcy High School. Needless to say, Mama Jane was thrilled to welcome girls into the family as daughters-in-law and grandchildren. Her beloved grandchildren loved staying at Mama Jane's house, where anytime was a good time for donuts and ice cream, or exploring treasures in the attic, and boxer shorts were recognized as an acceptable alternative for seersucker suits at church. Kelsey, Julia, Ian, Elliott, Johnny, Katy Jane and Bailey were her light and she was so proud of them, as they were of Mama Jane. She brought style, happiness and laughter to everything, whether dancing on a table in a Munich Hofbrau or dancing with J on the White House lawn. Mama Jane will be remembered for her feisty sense of humor, her quick wit, and her love of J, her family and her friends. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Searcy Junior Auxiliary and the CT chapter of PEO. Her Friday lunch group and Bridge Club comprised a legendary group of Searcy women, all of whom loved her as much as she loved them. "Boats, planes and trains, Honey she saw everything, all the way from Hollywood to Nashville" and although she never did catch up with Johnny and June Cash during their stay in Fairfield Bay, her beloved condo at the lake was, as one friend put it, a place where many "heartaches, dreams and secrets were shared." Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Dr. John E. "J" Bell; her brother, Rowe Huggins; sons, Brad (Michelle Bond); Jack (Amy Bell); and John (Lindsey Bell); her grandchildren; and many special nieces and nephews. Brad was steadfast in his care for Jane in her last days and the rest of her family appreciates his love and devotion. The family also wishes to extend its heartfelt thanks to the people of Arkansas Hospice and particularly Sonia Dry, her Hospice nurse who won Jane's heart with her kindness and love during the last few weeks. The family will receive visitors at the home Tuesday evening. Service 2 p.m. Wednesday at the First Presbyterian Church of Searcy with reception to follow. Arrangements by Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net.

Published August 15, 2017

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