Dorothy Mae Bell

BELL, Dorothy M, 86, passed gently from our loving hands into God’s on Sunday, November 2, 2014 and was instantly welcomed into the waiting arms of her husband, Benni and youngest daughter, Susie. She leaves behind her children, Rita Diefenderfer, Art, Wilson Jr., Charles Wilson, Barbara Zsuffa, Dean Bell, and David Bell, 11 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews, especially Joy Kotz. Dorothy was born in Mayo, FL on May 26, 1928, and was preceded in death by her parents and three siblings. Dottie had a hard childhood but was self-taught and resilient. She was married twice, the 2nd time to the “love of her life” Benni H. Bell. They had been married for 58 years when he passed away in 2013. Throughout the years, she held many positions but was best remembered for her time at the Mullet Inn on the Causeway. She started as a waitress and ended up running the office and being the owner’s right hand. Dorothy was a strong, hardheaded, spirited, loving and joyful woman. She was known for her beautiful handicrafts, good home cooking, and straight talking. Although, she never met a stranger, or turned anyone away from her table, if you “messed” with her family you knew what a real Florida hurricane was. She was always there to lend a hand, listen to a problem or open her arms to anyone who needed a hug. It was a blessing to have been embraced by her goodness, and to have shared laughter, tears, joy, and sadness with her. Dorothy’s simple honesty, truthfulness, character, wisdom, and giving spirit humbled those lucky enough to experience it. Although Alzheimer’s slowed her down, it never put out her light. Heaven shines a whole lot brighter now. Donations in her name may be made to: The Johnnie Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute at USF, Attn: Development Department, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 70, Tampa, FL 33612-4742(giving.ufs.edu) by clicking on the Make a Donation link or to: LifePath Hospice, 3010 W Azeele St, Tampa,33609. Visitation and Celebration Of Life will be held on Friday, November 7th, 2014, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at Blount and Curry Funeral Home, Oldsmar/West Hillsborough Chapel, 6802 SILVERMILL DR, TAMPA. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at 10:00 AM at Sunset Memory Gardens, 11005 N. US Highway 301, Thonotosassa.