Michael Thomas Bell

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Thomas Bell, 78, of Bristol, Rhode Island on October 2, 2024.

Born in Charleston, South Carolina on August 31, 1946. He was the eldest of seven children of the late Algie and Mary (Hoey) Bell. He was often referred to as #1 in the family.

Mike graduated in 1968 from the University of Rhode Island with a B.S. in Engineering Science. He was a Senior Software Engineer at Federal Products and Raytheon.

He was a devout Catholic and a man of deep faith. He cherished and lived in relationship with God daily. He also, maintained a passion for reading, playing strategic games and enjoyed television. He cherished family time and exploring new destinations. His community involvement included volunteering at My Brother's Keeper and serving as an assistant coach for the Bellingham robotics team. But spending time with family was always among his top interest and enjoyment.

Throughout his life, Michael exemplified patience, generosity and fairness. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need - he was selfless.

He will lovingly be remembered by his siblings; Richard Bell and his wife Celine from Greenville, RI; Regina Hood and her husband Richard from Portsmouth, RI; Barbara Bell from Somerset, MA; Christine Bell-Foust from Warwick, RI; Brian Bell and his wife Dorothy from Bellingham, MA; as well as his nieces and nephews, Richard, Mary and her partner DJ, Jeffrey and his wife Lindsey, Jaime and her partner Devan, Michael and his wife Kaleigh, Kolbe, Matthew and his great nephew; Carter. He is predeceased by his brother James.

Calling hours will be on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM in the Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport, RI, offering the chance for friends and family to come together to honor his memory.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Mass at 9:00 AM on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at Saint Augustin Church 2 Eastnor Road, Newport RI. Burial will follow at Trinity Cemetery, 367 East Main Road, Portsmouth, RI.

As we come together to remember his life and pay tribute to Mike's life, let us cherish the memories and the lasting impact he made on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing leaves an unfillable void, yet his limitless kindness, and compassionate nature will be eternally remembered. His legacy endures, cherished deeply in our hearts with love that remains unwavering. Mike, we love you WHOLEHEARTLY and forever.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Michael's memory to either: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284, dana-farber.org/gift or Saint Jude Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105