Betty Jane Bell

Betty Jane Bell was born in Morehead Iowa on November 27th, 1929. She was one of 6 Daughters of Jacob and Agnes Parker. Jacob was a farmer during the depression era, and moved his family to several farms around the Soldier-Morehead area in Iowa.

Betty’s family finally settled in Omaha, NE. Betty had a beautiful voice and started singing at social events and weddings. She attended Capital Beauty School and became a licensed beautician. She apprenticed at Bell Beauty Salon in South Omaha. While at Bell Beauty Salon she met the owners son LeRoy Bell. The 2 married on September 21st, 1948. They had 2 children; LeAnn and LeRoy. Betty and LeRoy moved their new family to Wisconsin for better job opportunities. Years later Olive (Betty’s now Mother-In-Law), was ready to retire and sold the beauty shop to her, where she ran the salon until she retired at the age of 70.

In the winter of 1978, Bettys Husband LeRoy passed away from a short battle of lung cancer. Years later Betty met her Long-term Companion Joseph Merwald. Betty was diagnosed 8 years ago with onset Alzheimer disease. Betty left this world on February 12th, 2020 at the age of 90. She passed away peacefully in her sleep with family by her side.

During her life time Betty enjoyed traveling with her family, gardening, “shopping the sales”, and playing games with all of her grandchildren. She loved entertaining her family during the holidays. Her home was always open. Betty has touched several lives over the years. She was kind and caring and will be graciously missed.

Betty is preceded in death by her Husband LeRoy Bell, Parents Jacob D Parker and Agnes Marian, and sisters Nadine Thompson, Elenore Andersen, Roma “Darlene” Gaetke, Martha Williams.

Betty is survived by her sister Berniece Moore; long-term companion Joseph Merwald; Son: Leroy Bell and Wife Cindy Bell- kids Andrea Morrow-Husband Richard Morrow 3 children, Katie Liston- Husband Steve Liston, Lee Michael Bell, Timothy Botos- Wife Maria Botos – 2 children, Nicole Christiansen- Husband Jerry – 3 children, Billy Botos – 2 children, Samantha Botos- 1 child. Daughter: LeAnn Rasch and Partner Eddie Dorsey, - kids Kenneth Rasch – 4 children, Cory Rasch – 4 children, Amanda Hall – 3 children, Ann Rasch- 2 children; 17 nieces and nephews.

Donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Omaha, Ne. 11711 Arbor St #110, Omaha, NE 68144, (402) 502-4300.

Services provided by Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home