Matthew Bell

Matthew Bell, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Marine, and steady presence in the lives of so many, passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus on February 10, 2026, at the age of 71, surrounded by his loving family. He courageously fought a long, hard battle against cancer and leaves behind a legacy defined by love, service, resilience, and faith.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Lorraine Bell, his children, Lisa, Cherie, and Ryan Bell, and his granddaughters, Brianna, Olivia, Chloe, and Amelia Bell-all of whom carry his legacy forward in their lives and in their values. He is also survived by his sister Crystal O'Keefe, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews, along with the countless people who were better for having known him. Matthew was predeceased by his sisters Robin and Katherine Bell and Laura Vivada

Born on September 8, 1954, Matthew grew up in Easton, Massachusetts. He was raised with humble beginnings, learning early the value of hard work, perseverance, and family. From fishing with his father near White Horse Beach to growing up surrounded by farms, ponds, and close-knit community, Matthew's childhood instilled in him a deep appreciation for simplicity, loyalty, and presence. Matthew proudly served his country as a United States Marine near the end of the Vietnam War. He was part of 4th Marine Air Wing, driving transport trucks and assisting with the evacuation of wounded Marines and soldiers. He carried his service quietly, never boasting, but always honoring those who served alongside him and those who did not return. He often said, "Marines don't run from danger-they run toward it." Once a Marine, always a Marine-this principle guided his life long after his service ended.

Matthew lived with integrity, discipline, and courage. After 9/11, he attempted to reenlist, driven by the instinct to protect and serve, only to be told he was too old. That response did nothing to diminish his sense of duty. He was a devoted husband who stood steadfastly by his wife's side through breast cancer. He believed deeply that God gives strength to those who ask, a faith he demonstrated daily-not only through words, but through action, compassion, and perseverance. Matthew was also a father in the truest sense-not only to his children, but to many others who found guidance, safety, and belonging in his home.

His house was always open, always full, and always welcoming. Friends became family and family grew beyond blood. He led by example-teaching responsibility, faith, and resilience through quiet consistency rather than lectures. An avid fisherman, motorcyclist, and traveler, he loved to explore new places with his family.

Hawaii held a special place in his heart, and he visited there three times. Matthew shared countless moments with his children both on the open road and the water. From fishing at New Pond in Easton-where he swam and fished as a boy, using licorice as bait-to deep-sea fishing trips out of Plymouth and Gloucester, where first fish were caught and lifelong memories were made, those moments formed bonds that endured a lifetime. And to Matthew, motorcycles, were not just a passion, but a connection-one that carried meaning, conversation, and shared experience.

Matthew faced adversity with courage and resolve. After suffering a heart attack and undergoing a double bypass surgery, he made lasting changes to his life. He returned to school, earning his high school diploma and later a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a master's degree in homeland security, proving that growth and purpose have no expiration date. Even in hardship, he never stopped showing up for others.

After a serious motorcycle accident that left both him and his son hospitalized, Matthew-despite broken ribs, broken clavicle, and a collapsed lung-stayed by his son's bedside, embodying strength through presence. Matthew believed that what matters most in life is not how many times you fall, but whether you get back up. He lived that truth. He taught that rebuilding is a right, that faith is a foundation, and that love is an action.

Matthew Bell's legacy lives on in the strength he modeled, the love he gave freely, the faith he lived quietly, and the example he set every day. He will be deeply missed, forever honored, and never forgotten.

His funeral will be held at on Thursday, February 19th at 10:00am. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Burial will be held at a later. Calling hours will be at the Kane Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 605 Washington St. (Rte. 138) Easton on Wednesday, February 18th from 5:00 to 8:00pm. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart Center at Boston Children's Hospital or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Matthew's memory.