Alma L Bell

Alma L. (Miller) Bell, 96, of Boise, formerly Caldwell, passed away Friday September 14, 2018, at Jullion House, where she lived and was lovingly cared for by Dominique Jackson and her staff the last 20 months of her life. She was born, on May 12, 1922, to John A. and Amelia Gaye Miller in Caldwell (the youngest of 7), where she attended school and lived until her marriage to Donald R. Bell. Because he was stationed with the Army in Cheyenne, WY, she rode the train there to be married on August 2, 1941. His army assignments took them also to Tacoma, WA where son David was born in 1942 and then to Portland, OR where son Donald was born in 1944. After Don returned from his WWII European tour with the Army Band, the couple returned to Boise where daughter Elaine was born in 1947. Soon thereafter they moved to Caldwell and together owned and operated Bell’s Horn Shop--a band instrument sales /repair and uniform shop. Alma managed the business but also started selling popular records that successfully financed the college educations of their three children and a retirement getaway at Cascade Lake next to brother, Art’s, cabin. Even though their lives revolved around the music business and the kids’ activities, Alma enjoyed many creative endeavors but discovered a special talent while taking painting lessons with Dr. Peck at BSU – many of her paintings adorn the walls of family and friends. Being “Mom ” and “Grandma” was what she loved the most, though. Alma and Don were married until his death in 1998—57 wonderful years. Two years later she bought a house in Boise’s Willowbrook Retirement Community to be closer to her children and grandchildren but also gained many wonderful new friends. She amazed everyone by living independently for 16 years even though she was legally blind due to macular degeneration. Along with her fierce independence, many friends, family and caregivers contributed to her success of living in her home for so long. Two very special friends, Mary Glynn and Dawn Christensen, gave her very special support the last 9 years. The family wishes to express special thanks and appreciation to them, her many friends and family, along with the caregivers at Comfort Keepers, Jullion House and Keystone Hospice for their love, and tender attention to our sweet, beautiful lady. Alma was preceded in death by her beloved parents, 3 brothers (Art, Garrett, and Paul) and 3 sisters (Mildred Norton, Ethel Rathburn, and Vivian Shawhan); husband Don, a grandchild, and 2 great-great grandchildren. She is survived by her three children and their families— David; Donald, his wife Lana and children (Stephen, Chris, Paul, Michael, Alan, Amy, Robert, Adam, Brandon, Jarrett and Chad); Elaine Kempton and children (Mindy, Brad & Scott); numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held at Summers Funeral Home Ustick Chapel, Meridian on October 13, 2018 at 2:30 p.m. Memories may be shared on Alma’s memorial webpage at www.summersfunerla.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Friends in Action (c/o Legacy Corps, 1607 SW. Jefferson St. Boise ID 83702) an organization that provided her volunteer companionship since 2004 making it possible for her to enjoy independent living.