Obituary

Ann Gay Bell, 84, of Charleston, WV, passed away April 12, 2024, after a long illness.

She was born August 19, 1939, to Genevieve and Thomas Gay of Pratt, WV. Ann graduated from East Bank High School, where she sang in All Country and All State choruses, played clarinet in the school band and was president of the Student Council. Ann then attended West Virginia Institute of Technology (WVIT), earning a bachelor’s degree in education in 1961. While attending WVIT, Ann participated in a sorority, was the editor of The Collegan, the college yearbook, and was crowned Ms. Golden Bear of WVIT in 1959. Ann also met her future husband while attending WVIT, John B. “Mike” Bell of Summerville, WV. After graduation, Ann and Mike were married in December 1961.

Ann’s first teaching position was at Charleston High School, where she taught English and History. Soon after having children, Ann became a stay-at-home mom. She enjoyed participating in the American Association of University Women (AAUW), the Newcomer’s club and was an avid bridge player. Ann returned to the working world in the 1980s, initially working for the Boy Scouts of America, and retiring from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court as a bankruptcy analyst.

Ann and Mike lived many places in their life together, including Georgia, Hawaii, Michigan, Maryland and West Virginia. Ann always said that Hawaii had the best weather, but West Virginia had the best people.

Ann is survived by her husband of 62 years, Mike Bell of Charleston, daughter, Lynn Bell of Charleston, and sister-in-law, Barbara Sales of Summersville. She also leaves behind many cousins, nephews, great-nephews and friends.

Ann was preceded in death by her daughter, Kathi (Bell) Wiley of Birmingham, AL, sister, Linda Gay of Pratt, and her parents, Genevieve (Veazy) and Thomas Gay of Pratt.

The Bell family would like to thank the Amazing caregivers from Amada Senior Care, from Kanawha-Charleston Hospice, and most especially, long-time family friend, Debbie Kirk. Each of you made a difference in Ann’s life — Thank You!

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com .

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.