Patricia Ann Bell passed away Tuesday, July 14 at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital at the age of 71.
Born August 6, 1954, in Henderson, Tennessee, Ann lived a life full of love, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her family. She was a devoted wife, mom, grandmother, and church member committed to making the world better for those around her.
Affectionately known as “Nana” and “Maw Maw,” Ann found her greatest joy in spoiling her grandchildren and her beloved cocker spaniel, Roxie. There were always cookies, candy, and plenty of treats to share. She also enjoyed shopping, dining with friends and family, and catching up on her favorite television shows.
Ann worked as a psychological technician at Western Mental Health Institute for 37 years and took great pride in caring for others. She was a faithful member of Parrans Chapel Baptist Church, where she loved worshiping and volunteering in the children’s ministry. She was also an active member of the Senior Ladies Sunday School Class and treasured the friendships and fellowship she found there.
Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Marshall Lloyd Bell. The couple was married on August 1, 1974, at the family home where they would spend the next 46 years together. Ann devotedly cared for Lloyd throughout his illness until his passing in 2020. Together they enjoyed traveling, playing cards, and sharing the playful banter that brought laughter to their home. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Arlie Porter Naylor and Pauline Hettie Riley Naylor.
Ann is survived by her sons, Jason Bell and his wife, Carolyn, of Bolivar, and Chris Bell and his wife, Mallory, of Jackson; and her grandchildren, Logan Bell and Morgan Bell of Bolivar, and Fitz Bell and Babs Bell of Jackson. She is also survived by her siblings: Bobby Naylor and his wife, Tina; Ricky Naylor and his wife, Dianna; Gary Naylor and his wife, Amy; Wanda Fosbinder and her husband, David; Jan Laughmiller and her husband, Brett; and Pam Bailey and her husband, Brian. She leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Ann’s life will be held at 10 AM on Friday, July 17, 2026 at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Bolivar. Visitation will be held at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Bolivar on Thursday, July 16th from 6 pm to 8 pm and again on Friday, the 17th from 9 am until 10 am. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and thanksgiving for a life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Parrans Chapel Baptist Church.
