Marilyn Bell

Marilyn Pinerman Bell, 94, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. Born on March 4, 1931, in Baltimore, Maryland, she lived a life filled with love, kindness, and dedication to her husband, family and community.

Marilyn was the beloved wife of Dr. Herbert S. Bell for 68 years until his passing 3 years ago. Having met at the ages of 14 and 16, their enduring love was one for the ages. She was the devoted mother of Dr. Alan Bell (Susan) of Dover, Massachusetts; Jayne Nathans (Rick) of Blacklick, Ohio; Debbie Garber (Craig–deceased) of Carol Stream, Illinois, and Nancy Brenner (Steve) of Cortlandt Manor, New York. She cherished her role as a grandmother to Amanda Bell Steinhandler (Andrew), David Bell, Cara Wasserstrom (Chris Weible), Lauren Wasserstrom (Nick Sylvest), Bryan Wasserstrom, Westyn Garber, Jena Garber, Jordan Brenner (Amanda) and Joshua Brenner (Cooper Rohan). Her love extended to her great-grandchildren Bryn and Blake Steinhandler, Daniella and Lilah Weible, and Hudson and Freddy Brenner. Marilyn also shared a close and loving bond with her sisters-in-law Eileen Pinerman (Mervyn) of Baltimore, Maryland, and Cantor Susan Bell Alcott (Mark) of New Rochelle, New York, and her many adored nieces and nephews.

Beloved family members who predeceased her included her parents William and Jean Pinerman of Baltimore, Maryland, her in-laws Dr Julius W. Bell and Frances Orman Bell of New York City, her brother Dr. Mervyn Pinerman, her beloved daughter-in-law Diane Bell and beloved son-in-law Craig Garber.

Marilyn dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her family. She took immense pride in being a supportive wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Her home was always open to friends and loved ones alike. She was often described as the “ultimate mother” by her children’s friends, because of her warmth and kindness.

Beyond her family life, Marilyn was deeply involved in volunteer work and community service. She was an active volunteer for Reach to Recovery and served on the Women's Auxiliary Board at Huron Rd. Hospital. As Treasurer of the Women's Guild and a room mother for each of her four children during their school years, she gave generously of her time to nurture those around her. She also dedicated herself to collecting donations for various charitable organizations throughout her life.

Her Jewish heritage played a significant role in her life. Marilyn was a devoted member of B’nai Jeshurun Synagogue in Pepper Pike, Ohio, where she belonged to the Temple Sisterhood and co-advised the synagogue youth group alongside her husband Herb.

Marilyn found joy in simple pleasures. Spending time with family by the ocean in Florida, Connecticut, the Outer Banks and the Caribbean brought her peace. She had a passion for reading and enjoyed being part of her neighborhood book club where she could share stories and ideas with friends. Marilyn was a gracious hostess and devoted friend. Known for her warm smile and comforting presence, Marilyn had an innate ability to say just the right thing at the right time–always with kindness in her heart.

Her legacy is one of love, sweetness, generosity, and unwavering support for those she held dear. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel, 1985 S Taylor Rd., Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44118 on Monday, March 31st, 2025 at 1 PM. Friends are welcome to attend.

To view this service, please navigate to the Services section below and click on “JOIN LIVESTREAM.”.

Burial will follow at Chesterland Memorial Park, 11521 Chillicothe Rd. Chesterland, Ohio 44026.

The family will receive friends at the Residence Inn Beachwood, 3628 Park East Drive, Beachwood, OH 44122 on Monday from 5 to 8 PM and Tuesday from 1 to 3 and 5 to 8 PM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Marilyn’s memory are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Cancer Society, Zussman Community Hospice or B’nai Jeshurun Congregation.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bkbmc.com for the Bell Family.