Obituary published on Legacy.com by East Haven Funeral Home on Oct. 14, 2025.
Raymond Bell Obituary Raymond Bell
Veteran, Mentor, Author, Devoted Catholic, and Proud Family Man
January 31, 1943 - April 1, 2025
Raymond Bell, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and man of deep Catholic
faith, passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 82. A longtime resident of Deer Park, Texas, Raymond lived
a life marked by faith, service, humility, and love.
Born on January 31, 1943, to Raymond and Theresa Bell, he began his military career in the United States
Navy, serving from 1961 to 1967. He later joined the United States Air Force, serving from 1967 to 1971,
where he completed three tours in Vietnam as an Air Traffic Controller. He continued his service with the
United States Army from 1976 to 1981, and the Air National Guard from 1984 to 1993. His military career
spanned over three decades and was a testament to his steadfast commitment to his country.
In 1963, Raymond married the love of his life, Chere-Joann Bell. Their marriage, which lasted 50 years until
her passing, was the foundation of everything he valued. During his deployments in Vietnam, Raymond wrote
copious letters to Chere-Joann sometimes daily. These heartfelt letters, filled with longing, reflection, and deep
affection, became the earliest expressions of what would blossom into a lifelong passion for writing. Through
every season of life, their love endured with strength, grace, and unwavering devotion.
Raymond was a devout Catholic and an active member of the Knights of Columbus. His faith was the guiding
light of his life, shaping his character and inspiring his commitment to service and community. He supported
several charitable causes, including schools serving Native American communities.
Following his military service, Raymond led a varied and impactful civilian life-working as a sous chef, club
manager, cab driver, and juvenile corrections supervisor for the State of Colorado. Later, he became a
cherished school crossing guard, watching over children with a protective heart and a familiar wave.
He was also the proud author of three published books, sharing his stories, humor, and reflections with the
world. His words, like his presence, were thoughtful and deeply felt.
Raymond was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Chere-Joann Bell; his daughter, Therese Fae Bell Glover;
and his parents, Raymond and Theresa Bell.
He is survived by his children: Jefferson David Bell, Michael Raymond Bell, and Angele-Marie Bell
Pendergraft; son in laws Anthony, Sonny and Lupe and daughter in law Michelle ; his grandchildren: Christina, Anthony, Adam, Tiffany, Debra, Joshua, Meghan, Travis, Rebecca,
and Lacey; and numerous great-grandchildren who carry his legacy forward with pride.
Service Details
Viewing: Thursday, April 3, 2025 | 4:00-8:00 PM
Rosary: Thursday at 6:00 PM
Funeral Mass: Friday, April 4, 2025 | 10:00 AM
Raymond Bell lived a life defined by heart, faith, and family. He was a man of principle, affection, and
enduring love-a true example of quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Services
Visitation
Thursday
April 3, 2025
4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
East Haven Funeral Home
716 College Avenue
South Houston, TX 77587
Rosary
Thursday
April 3, 2025
6:00 PM
East Haven Funeral Home Chapel
716 College Ave.
South Houston, Texas 77587
Funeral Mass
Friday
April 4, 2025
10:00 AM
St Hyacinth Catholic Church
2921 Center St.
Deer Park, TX 77536
Leaving in Procession to Cemetery
Friday
April 4, 2025
11:15 AM
St Hyacinth Catholic Church
2921 Center St.
Deer Park, TX 77536
Burial Service
Friday
April 4, 2025
12:00 PM
Forest Lawn Cemetery
8701 Almeda Genoa Rd
Houston, TX 77075 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Raymond Joseph Bell, please visit our Tree Store.