Dorothy Bell

It is with great sadness that the family of Dorothy Mae Gafford Bell announces her passing on October 29 at the age of 89. Services will be 2:00 P.M. Friday, November 3, 2017 at Brooks Chapel. Burial will be in Dreamland Cemetery. Her family owned a Dairy in Canyon throughout her youth; and, she was an active part of the business recalling the hard work of life on the farm during the Great Depression and Texas dustbowl.  She loved children. After graduating from West Texas State University, "Mrs. Bell" excelled as a first grade teacher In Claude. Teaching was her passion, and former students remark on her ability to inspire them to discover their best selves. As a promoter of excellent education, she served as President of the local Texas Teachers Association.  She was honored by the state of Texas Governer's office after nomination by a former student as being "the most influential person in my life". She travelled to Austin to receive special recognition along with others in Texas who had contributed to success of extraordinary professionals. After the death of her husband John, she moved to Scottsdale, Arizona and more recently to Kennebunk, Maine. While in Kennebunk, she attended theater, floral design, travelled, and discovered many rich friendships.  She was admired for her perseverance, confident attitude, and style. Dorothy was known for her amazing intelligence, quick wit and loving honesty. She will be missed by all who knew this amazing, unique woman. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband of almost 60 years, and love of her life, John Bell. Dorothy was also preceded in death by her loving parents, Bertha and James (Jim) Chalmers Gafford; beloved sisters, Maureen Gafford Stevenson and Mildred Gafford Hickman; and her brother, Bill Gafford. She is survived by daughters Lauren "Becky" Bell and Melinda Swires and her sons Phil, Mark, Brent, and the late Alan Bell. Dorothy had 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.  She considered her sister-in-law, Nita Wooten, as a sister.