Family Hour: Monday October 27,2014
Saints Andrew and Benedict Catholic Church
2430 Beatrice St
Detroit, Michigan 48217

Thelma Louise Bell was born on December 8, 1916, in Winona West Virginia to the union of Samuel ans Carrie Booker. Her brothers Donald, Jimmy, Earl, Arguffus and sister Ruth, precded her in death.

Thelma was raised as a child in the fellowship of Uniin Second Baptist Church, in River Rouge, Michigan. She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized under the leadership of Reverend E.C. Copeland. For 45 years, Thelma served in the church on ministries such as the Christian Woman's Guild, Choir. and the Nurses Guild.

Thelma graduated with honors from River Rou8ge High School. Upon graduation, she continued her education and earned a degree as a registered nurse. Thelma loved her career as a nurse and prided herself in providing only "excellent" patient care. Thelma worked primarily as a psychiatric nurse at Detroit Receiving, Veterans and Wayne County General Psychiatric (Eloise) Hospitals.

On February 13, 1939, Thelma married the love of her life, Otis Richard Bell, of Bellville, Michigan. Thelma and Otis gave life to two girls, Sharon and Terrian. Setting an example, both girls were raised with Christian values and a strong education foundation.

In 1962 Thelma and Otis joined Saits Andrew and Benedict Catholic Church in Detroit, Michigan, under the leadership of Father John Motovich. As a member for 52 years, Thelma served on several ministries such as, The legion of Mary, a Girl Scout leader, church carnival co-coordinator, Sisters of Judith, Co-caption of the yearly church paper fundraising drive, noon parent volunteer, SSAB cheerleading coach, and many, many other church ministries.

Upon retirement in 1980, Thelma and Otis became yearly snowbirds traveling south during the winter moinths, golfing, fishing and doing whatever came to mind. They were also members of the "Off We Go" and the Romazn Harromes camping and recreational clubs. Thelma's most favorite trip was to Jerusalem, and she was thrilled when she was baptized in the River Jordan. Thelma was also an active member of the NAACP, Beechwood Woman's Community Center Social Action Club, The Liddesdale Liberty Block Club and the "Bag Ladies" Golfing Club.

Thelma and Otis celebrated their 50 year marriage in grand spectacular fashion. The anniversary event was celebrated with hundreds of their family and friends, and was a great time had by all.

Thelma and Otis were married for 61 years. Otis preceded her in death in September 2000. Thelma continued her church involvememnt with Saints Andrew and Benedict Seniors Group for many years. She also became a member of the Red Hat Ladies and particiated in as man activities as she could, until her health began to fail.

On October 19, 2014, at 97 years old, Thelma was called home by our Heavenly Father. Her memory will be forever cherished by her two daughters, Sharon Ford and Terrain Bell; two grandchildren, Brandon Bell and Kyle Baker. Her granddaughter Kimberly Baker, preceded her in death. Thelma is also survived by two brothers, Kermit and Kenneth Booker; two sisters Dorothy Towles and Marjorie McCloudy; four greatv grandchildren, joshua, Alvin, Brooklyn and Kyle Jr. She also leaves 13 nieces and nephews and a host of friends and family