Donald D. Bell

Donald Daniel Bell, 91, passed away on Thursday, January 1, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 7, 1934 in South Philadelphia, Donald is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Mary Catherine; his adoring children, Theresa McEvoy (Kevin), Donald Bell (Kristen), Christine Moody (Joe), Mary Wiedenman (Tom), Ann Bell, Tricia Mancini (Len); his cherished grandchildren, Colin McEvoy, Madeleine Bell, Ed and Megan Moody, Nora and Siena Wiedenman, Ava and Luke DeMaio; his brother-in-law Patrick Edmonds, sister-in-law Kathleen Maguire, and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nora and Thomas Bell, his sister, Joan Edmonds, his brother Thomas Bell, sister-in-law Kiki Bell, and brother-in-law William Maguire. Don was a proud graduate of West Catholic High School for Boys, Class of 1952, and went on to graduate from Saint Joseph’s University in 1956. He was a proud member of the Air Force Reserve and was activated for service during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Shortly after, he met the love of his life, Mary Catherine, and in true devoted Philadelphia sports fan style, took her to the Palestra on their first date. Their relationship embodied everything a beautiful marriage could. For over 60 years, Don and Mary loved and supported each other through good times and bad. Their commitment to one another was unparalleled, extending into the very last days of Don’s life. United in their faith, Don and Mary raised six children in Drexel Hill, PA where they resided for over 50 years as faithful members of St. Charles Borromeo parish. Don served as a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, committed to caring for the needs of the less fortunate. Don’s compassion, kindness, and generosity were only a few of the quintessential traits for which he was known. Committed to serving others, Don devoted his life to Catholic education. For over 37 years, he taught at St. James High School in Chester until its closing in 1993 when he chose to teach at Archbishop Prendergast High School in Drexel Hill for the remainder of his career. The brotherhood of the St. James Bulldogs played an important role in Don’s life. Former students and colleagues became some of Don’s closest and dearest friends. Don loved attending as many alumni events as possible including Dogs on the Dunes. He was awarded the Distinguished Medal of Honor in 2009 at the St. James Wall of Honor ceremony, one of his proudest moments. Of all things in life, Don’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his wife, Mary, and all of his children, in-laws, and grandchildren. His favorite moments involved celebrating holidays, enjoying the shore, savoring a good meal, dancing, laughing, and talking about all things Philly sports. His 90th birthday celebration was one of his favorite times when he was surrounded by loved ones. Don was the essence of a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and will be deeply missed. He will be remembered for many things, but most notably for his humble nature, his quiet wisdom, his incredible wit, and his unconditional love. Visitation: Wednesday 9:00 AM St. Charles Borromeo Church 3422 Dennison Ave. Drexel Hill, PA 19026 Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday 11:00 AM St. Charles Borromeo Church Interment: SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s memory to A Love for Life 117 N. Lincoln Avenue Newtown, PA 18940 in honor of Kevin and Nora Edmonds, Don’s deceased nephew and niece.

Donald D. Bell

July 7, 1934 - January 1, 2026