Marie A. Bell (nee Belfield)

Marie A. Bell (nee Belfield) passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on August 21, 2026. Beloved wife and soulmate of William Bell, Jr. Loving mother of Eileen Fiala (Walter), Barbara Valletto (Dawna Lund), William Bell III, and Carolyn Rullo. Cherished Grandmom of Ashley, Rebecca, Dana, Cara, Madelyn, and Abigail, and proud Great-Grandmom of Hazel, Walker, Joseph, and Ford. Dear sister of Patricia McCarrick (James) and the late Claire Dennehy and Paul Belfield, Jr. Also very close with cousin-in-law (honorary second brother) Bob McKay. Marie is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Marie was a proud graduate of St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls, Class of 1953. She went on to enjoy a successful professional career as a paralegal, a role that suited her intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic.

One of the greatest blessings of Marie's life was the love she shared with her husband, Bill. The two were true soulmates and shared more than 69 wonderful years of marriage together. Side by side, they built a beautiful life centered around their four children and the family that continued to grow through the years.

Family was always at the heart of Marie's life. Nothing brought her greater happiness than being a mother, Grandmom, and Great-Grandmom. She took tremendous pride in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and made every effort to be present for the moments that mattered to them. Whether it was a recital, sporting event, school show, or another special occasion, Marie could often be found in the audience or on the sidelines, proudly supporting the people she loved most. Their accomplishments were her accomplishments, and their happiness brought her immeasurable joy.

Marie and Bill also shared a love of travel. For nearly 30 years, they enjoyed exploring new places together, whether traveling abroad or discovering destinations throughout the United States. Those trips provided them with countless memories and stories that they treasured throughout their life together. Marie also enjoyed the simpler traditions that made life special. Saturdays often meant a trip to the movies with Bill and her nephew, John, a tradition she always looked forward to.

Beginning in 2018, Marie continued to enjoy many special outings and memorable trips alongside Bill, Bill III, and her personal aide Brenda Mercado. With Brenda’s devoted care and companionship, Marie was able to continue getting out, enjoying new experiences, and making treasured memories with the people she loved most.

Marie will be remembered as a truly selfless woman who rarely, if ever, put herself first. Caring for others came naturally to her. She devoted her life to her husband and family, always making sure those around her were loved, supported, and cared for. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family will remain a lasting part of her legacy.

Above all, Marie's life was defined by love — the love she gave so freely to Bill throughout nearly seven decades of marriage, the love she had for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and the love she showed to everyone fortunate enough to be part of her life. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Burns Funeral Home, 9708 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19114, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A second viewing will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 3000 Cottman Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19149, followed by her Funeral Mass. Interment Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send any donations in Marie's name (Class of 1953), to St. Hubert's High School for Girls Scholarship Fund, 7320 Torresdale Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19136.