Janice Shaumann Bell's Obituary
Janice Schaumann Bell
November 14,1929 - November 17, 2023
Janice “Jan” Bell, born in East Orange, NJ, to Marguerite and Charles Schaumann, grew up in Wilmington, DE and attended Friend’s School. She earned a BA Degree in Botany at Connecticut College, fostering a deep love for nature and community, with fall being her favorite season, and Ginkgo trees holding a special place in her heart.
While working in marketing at Dupont, Jan met Roy E. Bell, Jr. on a blind date. They fell deeply in love, which culminated in marriage and a move to Memphis. There, Jan made lifelong friends and immersed herself in community activities, serving on the boards of The Art Academy, Art Today, Front Street Theater, and Bridges. Her passion for gardening blossomed in The Little Garden Club where she proudly served as the president. More recently she enjoyed being a member of The Arawata Garden Club. She loved volunteering (often in costume) with her friends, visiting Le Bonheur, The Neighborhood Christian School, and Ronald McDonald House.
As avid tennis players and trophy winners, Jan and Roy travelled the world as ambassadors for People-to-People Tennis, creating lasting memories with friends and celebrating 63 years of joyous marriage.
Jan’s contagious love of life, faith, and quick wit left a lasting impact on family and friends. Ever attuned to daily miracles, she often said, “It’s just one of those things.” Describing her life as “Jan’s Joyful Journey,” she shared her wisdom through beautifully written letters and spread her infectious joie de vivre to many. In her later years at Trezevant, Jan continued making new friends, cherishing staff and special attendants, whom she considered some of her new best friends.
Jan was predeceased by her husband Roy E. Bell Jr. and her sister, Wilda Williams King. She is survived by her three children, Kathy Adams (Ben), Roy Bell III (Lou Henslee), and Margot Roberts (John). Eight Grandchildren – Ben Adams (Lea), Scott Adams (Ashley), Conlee Stringfellow (Alex),Owen Bell, Amy Bell, Carson Paschal(Mark). Caroline Pharr (David), Johnny Roberts (Maddie) and twelve great grandchildren.
Services will be held November 27 at 1:00 at The Church of Holy Communion (4645 Walnut Grove Road) followed by a reception and visitation in Cheney Parrish Hall. The family request that memorials be sent to The Church of Holy Communion, Memphis Botanic Garden, or Church Health Center. In true Jan fashion, we kindly request that in lieu of flowers, you take a friend to lunch!
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