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Janis E. “Jan” Bell passed away on March 22, 2017, peacefully in her home while surrounded by her family. Jan was born February 10, 1938, in Shelby, North Carolina to Mary Annie and Roland Elam. Jan was the youngest of six children. In 1955, Jan married John W. “Bill” Bell, Jr., her loving husband of more than 61 years. After starting their married life in Lattimore, North Carolina, Jan and her family moved to Asheville, North Carolina, in 1964. Jan was a loving mother to four children, and she was instrumental to the success of her husband’s retail business. Warmly known as “Nana” to her grandchildren, Jan’s greatest joy was spending time with her family. She led by example, teaching her children and grandchildren Christian values, decency, and to always be guided by a moral compass. She often reminded her family to “Be a gentleman” and to “Be a lady” in all of their life pursuits. Nana’s legendary blessings at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other special occasions will be deeply missed. Jan’s faith in God was an inspiration to her entire family. Jan cherished family trips to Hilton Head and Wild Dunes where she enjoyed relaxing on the beach. She also enjoyed traveling to England with her husband on buying trips for his business. Jan often spoke of the time that she and Queen Elizabeth II waved at one another in London. At home, Jan enjoyed spending time in her garden, caring for her flowers, particularly Peonies, and watching Hummingbirds outside. Jan was a member of First Presbyterian Church Circle # 3, Children’s Welfare League, Four Seasons Garden Club, and Junior Vetust Study Club. She was passionate about antiques and loved all things British. She treasured her friendships and had a host of loyal friends. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Jan’s loving caregivers: Nancy, Tracy, Teresa, Angie and her beloved housekeeper and friend, Rosa Lee. Jan is survived by her husband, Bill; her brother, Ben; her four children and thirteen grandchildren: Julie (Douglas) Wilkins (John and Jennifer); John (Heidi) Bell (Catherine (Ben) Mitchell, Bill, and Thomas); Jenny (Byrd) Rawlings (Emily, William, Sarah, Caroline, and Margaret); and Jeff (Stephanie) Bell (Edward, Hampton, and Berklee); and her great-grandson, Benjamin. A celebration of life will be held at 3:00 o’clock p.m. on March 26, 2017, at First Presbyterian Church in Asheville. The family will receive friends one hour beforehand in the sanctuary. Interment will follow at Calvary Episcopal Churchyard, Fletcher, North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to First Presbyterian Church (40 Church Street, Asheville, NC 28801) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105).

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Mrs. Janis "Jan" E. Bell

February 10, 1938 - March 22, 2017

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Mrs. Janis "Jan" E. Bell

February 10, 1938 - March 22, 2017

Obituary & Service

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