Kareem Bell

BELL, Kareem of Arlington, passed away on October 13 th. Beloved son of Marie Bell and the late Terry Bell. Loving brother of Jessica Diop of Somerville, Shelley Jose and her husband Monhdil of Reading, Joelle Murphy and her husband Charlie of Dedham, Mena Bell and her husband Muhammed Sanneh of Lexington, Jason Zavaglia, Keyon and Keyona Bell, and Jillian Bell all of Arlington. Dear uncle to Imani and Kayla Jose, Sophie Diop and OJ Pekacar. And a beloved friend to many.
There has never been anyone like Kareem Bell. Imagine the coolest, funniest, most upbeat and compassionate human being, and you might come close to understanding him. It was a blessing to be in his presence and was evident to all who had the good fortune of knowing him and was afforded the opportunity to bear witness the magnitude of his impeccable character.
Kareem had an undeniable charm that you couldn't resist; in addition to being the epitome of a "ladies man", he was also a guy's guy, and of course a "MAMA's" boy Kareem gifted us with so many fond memories. He always had a smile on his face that could easily light up a whole room and would do everything in his power to spread that smile unto others. Whether it was through some playful mischief around the house, having dance parties with the nurses (and raising the roof, of course), or throwing the 'L' sign at the times he deemed necessary, not only reminding us that we were all losers but more importantly that we needed to lighten up and laugh. Kareem spared no expense when it came to the wealth of humor and joy he brought into our lives, and certainly knew the true value in happiness, family, and human connection.
He showed us every day what it means to live. He carried himself with such grace, integrity, and honor while facing challenges and strife that some could never imagine – and he remained unwaveringly grateful throughout it all. Imagine asking someone on life support with a tube down their throat, "how are you" to see them manage a smile and give you a nod of approval, so to say, "I'm good". Doesn't this bring into perspective a staggering truth about hardship and the power we hold in how we receive and frame it? Kareem has taught us so much in life without having to tell us the lesson – he lived the lessons, he embraced them, he showed us all that we should love life, not fear it, to live it to the fullest and appreciate where we are now.
If you ever needed a reminder to have faith in humankind, look no further than Kareem Bell.
Funeral services are private. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kareem, please visit our floral store.