CAROLYN CHELL

1942 - 2024

CAROLYN ANN CHELL

Sept. 19, 1942 – Sept. 16, 2024

Carolyn Ann Chell, 81, of Holtville, CA, passed away on Monday, September 16, 2024, just three days shy of what would have been her 82nd birthday, in Bakersfield, CA. She was born to Gene and Tena Jackson in Kennett, MO, on September 19, 1942. Gene moved the family to Holtville in 1956, where she lived for the rest of her life.

Carolyn entered Holtville High School as a ninth-grade freshman and made many friends with her cheerful personality and charming Missouri accent. As a proud member of the Holtville High School Vikettes, she enjoyed her high school years with enthusiasm and a warm heart and made life-long friends. After graduating, Carolyn worked at McDonald's department store and later at Clemets Drug Store in El Centro, where her warm smile and personality brightened the days of both coworkers and customers alike.

In 1959, while working at McDonald's Department Store, Carolyn was introduced to her future husband, Albert Chell, and together, they built a family, welcoming four children into the world. She poured her heart into being a devoted wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, and aunt, creating countless cherished memories filled with laughter, love, and warmth.

Carolyn was a born-again Christian and attended Faith Assembly Church with her family in Imperial, CA for several years. She was a long-time believer in Jesus Christ. She was a talented florist and used her talent at church decorating for the holidays and special events. She also worked as a florist for Jans Flower Affair and Desert Flowers.

She was a part of the church choir and participated in the annual Singing Christmas Tree. She attended Bethesda Bible School in El Centro and earned her graduate certificate.

She enjoyed supporting the community, working alongside Shirley Dillon, promoting the Imperial Valley Growers Association, and putting time into the Imperial Valley Museum with Bobby and Carmen Chell.

Carolyn is survived by her two daughters, Lisa and Kisno, and her two sons, Buck, and Mike. Her family grew even larger with her grandsons, Brad, Eric, Ryan, Mason, Logan, Kaden, and Raymond, along with her granddaughters, Melissa, Natalie, and granddaughter-in-law, Katie. She was blessed with six great-grandchildren, Evan, Delaney, Miles, Brooke, Morgan, and Emma. She is also survived by her younger sister, Sherry Marquand, sons-in-law, Andrew and Ray, and her daughter-in-law, Laura.

Carolyn married into a large family, was an aunt to thirty-one nieces and nephews, and was a favorite to many. She was considered a second Mom to many of her children's friends and enjoyed them all spending time out at the Chell Ranch, east of Holtville. Those that were fortunate enough to have known her will remember her laughter, warmth, sweet smile, wonderful cooking, and baking skills.

As we celebrate Carolyn's life, we remember her for the light she brought into our lives and the love she shared so generously. A loving mother and friend who was always ready and willing to listen to us. Though she may no longer be with us, her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us, reminding us to cherish each moment and spread joy, just as she did.

Service will be held on October 4, 2024, at 9 a.m. at Christ Community Church in El Centro. Burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery. Luncheon will follow at Christ Community Fellowship Hall.