Barbara Ann Bell of Irving, Texas, passed away on October 31, 2023, in Flower Mound, Texas. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend to all who knew her.

Barbara was born in 1942 in Waco, Texas to Lillian and Richard Schimschat. She was raised in Waco and graduated from Waco High School in 1960. Barbara married the love of her life, Charles “Russell” Bell, on December 3, 1960. They left Waco to begin their life in Irving, Texas in 1961. Barbara worked as a secretary for Dairy Queen for many years and then left Dairy Queen to work with Russell to build their HVAC company, Bell Air Conditioning for 30 years. Barbara enjoyed bowling with her friends and took many memorable trips for bowling tournaments. She started most days with a cup of coffee and the daily crossword puzzle in the newspaper and ended her days working alongside Russell in their garden. Barbara enjoyed gardening and grew beautiful flowers and a bountiful garden. Friends and family were always thankful to have her delicious tomatoes and vegetables every year. Barbara enjoyed baking and cooking for her family. She made the best southern fried chicken, limeade, and pecan pie. Barbara loved spending time with her extended family at a farm on the Brazos River called “The River” and camping with her family on the beach at Padre Island. During the winter months she enjoyed quilting, and her family cherishes the quilts she made for them. She loved being “Granny” to her 9 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Her grandkids have fond memories of Granny watching them when they swam in the backyard pool every summer.

Barbara is survived by her daughter Robin (husband Jeff) Yeakel, and daughter-in-law Lisa Bell. She is also survived by her 9 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, husband Charles Russell Bell, son John Bell, and son Greg Bell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Barbara’s name to your local humane society.