Stephen Alan Bell

Stephen Alan Bell passed away peacefully at home on May 9, 2026 at the age of 75 years. He lived a life of loving service to his family, friends, and country.

Stephen was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Rev. Richard Dudley Bell and the late Ruth Elizabeth Reese Bell. He served his country in the United States Coast Guard and was honorably discharged as a disabled veteran after sustaining injuries in service.

A graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, Stephen built an accomplished career in operations and construction management. His professional skill and engineering mind did not stop at work. At home, it showed up in elaborate tree houses, arc-welded lawnmower repairs, basement projects, ambitious Christmas decorations that could rival Clark Griswold's, and science fair projects that were flagged for "significant parental involvement." He believed in hard work, doing things yourself, and teaching his children along the way.

Stephen had a wide-ranging curiosity and knew just enough about almost any topic to be dangerous. He enjoyed a good debate and was usually convinced he was right. He loved to spar with his grandchildren about history, paranormal events, and whether there might really be treasure buried on Oak Island.

He approached life's challenges with a light heart and a sense of humor. Music was one of the gifts he passed down to his children and grandchildren. Even after years away from the guitar, he could pick one up and find the songs again. Movies and Philly sports were his chosen escapes, and his extensive collection reflected both his love of stories and his habit of making small things big.

Stephen rarely did anything halfway which resulted in LobsterFest dinners, impulse buying a sailboat while on vacation, and bringing home two puppies when his wife approved only one. His life was full of these stories.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Rev. Philip Bell and Charles Bell. He is survived by his dear wife of nearly 50 years, Mary Ellen Bell of Stow, Ohio; his son, Jonathan Bell (Katie) of Hudson, Ohio; his daughter, Madeline Ann Bell of Warwick, Rhode Island; his sister, Lois Elaine Mayhew of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts; and five grandchildren.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.waitefuneralhome.com.