Frances Ann Bell

Frances Ann Bell, 84, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at the Villages of St. Peters in St. Peters, MO. Born on January 31, 1940, in Bourbon, MO, to Charles and Aldine (Sherman) Schulze, Frances lived a life characterized by her unwavering faith and devotion to family.

Frances grew up in the close-knit community of Bourbon, where she attended local schools and graduated from Bourbon High School in the class of 1958. Her early life in Bourbon laid the foundation for the values she held dear throughout her life: love, compassion, and community service.

On November 22, 1958, Frances married the love of her life, Lloyd "Dean" Bell. Their union was blessed with three children: Charles, Larry, and DeAnna. The family moved to Maryland Heights when Lloyd became employed with McDonnell-Douglas. There, Frances dedicated herself to creating a loving home and nurturing her children. She was the cornerstone of the household, always ensuring that her family was well cared for and supported.

Though they resided in Maryland Heights, Frances and Dean often returned to their roots in Bourbon, where they enjoyed the company of their family, old friends and the comfort of their hometown. Frances was deeply involved with the Lutheran Church both Concordia Lutheran while growing up and eventually Beautiful Savior Lutheran in Bridgeton, MO, where her faith continued to be a guiding force in her life.

Frances was predeceased by her husband, Dean, who passed away in 1988. Despite the loss, she continued to embody strength and grace, finding solace in her family, her church, and her community.

Those who knew Frances will remember her for the joy she found in life's simple pleasures. She was an avid traveler, cherishing the memories of cruises with friends and family vacations that often included weekend camping trips during the summers. A highlight of her travels was a trip to England, an experience she treasured deeply.

Frances's love for her grandchildren knew no bounds. She cherished every moment spent with them, imparting wisdom and sharing in their joys and achievements. Her love for flowers was evident in her admiration for yellow roses, which reflected her sunny disposition and the warmth she brought to others.

Frances is survived by her children:  Larry Bell of St. Peters, MO, and DeAnna Bell of Belleville, IL; 9 grandchildren:  Michelle Carevic and husband, Kyle of St. Charles, MO, Phillip Bell and wife, Marisol of St. Louis, MO, Sarah Martin and husband, Jason of St. Charles, MO, Laura Bell of St. Peters, MO, Frances “Frannie” Bell of Florissant, MO, Dusty Bell of Fairview Heights, IL, Destiney Bell of New Orleans, LA, Delanee Bell and Dylan Cooper both of Belleville, IL; four great-grandchildren:  Isabel, Emma, Eli & Kiera; and numerous cousins and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd “Dean” Bell; her son, Charles “Chuck”; her parents, Charles and Aldine Schulze and an infant sister.

Services will be 11:00 AM, Friday, March 29, 2024 at Concordia Lutheran Church in Bourbon with Pastor Dennis Roedemeier officiating.  Inurnment will follow at Bourbon Cemetery, Bourbon.  Cremation has taken place.

Visitation will be 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM prior to the service at the church.

Condolences may be shared online with Frances’ family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.