Mary Louise Jones Bell

1926 - 2025

Mary Louise Jones Bell

Jan 19, 1926 - Oct 1, 2025

Mary Lois Jones Bell, a beloved resident of Houston, Texas, passed away on October 1, 2025 at the age of 99, surrounded by her devoted family. Born on January 19, 1926 in Yoakum, Texas, Mary was the ninth of ten children and shared a special bond as a twin. In 1934, her family transitioned to Houston, journeying in a Model-T Ford, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

Graveside service will be 11:00 am Monday, October 13, 2025 at College Station Cemetery.

During her time at Jeff Davis High School, Mary met Carl Whitt Bell, Sr., her soulmate and partner for 65 years. The two married in 1943, embarking on a journey together that included navigating the challenges and travels of World War II. Carl served in the US Navy, and Mary accompanied him to cities across the country, including Corpus Christi, St. Louis, New Orleans, Norfolk, and Sanford, Maine. After the war, they established their home and began raising their family in Houston.

When her children were older, Mary joined Exxon, dedicating 32 years to the company before retiring. She and Carl lived in several communities-Bayou Vista in Hitchcock, Country Place in Pearland, and eventually nearer their daughter in College Station. Following the loss of both Carl and their daughter, Mary moved to Holly Hall Christian Retirement Community in Houston to be closer to her son.

Mary infused energy and enthusiasm into every place she called home. She cherished hosting gatherings for friends and family, and was known for her remarkable culinary skills, able to assemble multi-course meals with impressive speed. A lover of competitive games, Mary played cards, dominoes, Mahjong, and Bridge until vision loss ended her streak. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel extensively, from square dancing in Spain to family vacations at Garner State Park and trips to Las Vegas. Among her extended family, she was celebrated as the most fun-loving aunt.

Mary's life was guided by her unwavering Christian faith and commitment to living by God's word; she was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of College Station.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Carl W. Bell; her daughter and son-in-law, Sherry and Gary Kovar; her parents, Garman and Mamie Jones; her brothers, Garman, Donald, Roy, Ray, Leonard, Lionas (her twin), and Bobby Jones; and her sisters, Louise Hagen and Edith Hanson. She leaves behind her son, Carl "Buddy" Bell, and daughter-in-law, Nona Lamb, in Houston, TX; grandchildren Gary Wayne Kovar (Snook, TX), Leslie & Russ Beck (College Station, TX), Stacy & Wade Head (Houston, TX), Sam & Darcie Crumpacker (College Station, TX), and Chris Wood (Austin, TX); great-grandchildren Colin Head (Baton Rouge, LA), Lola Head (New York, NY), Lex & Greyson Head (Houston, TX), Audrey & Case Crumpacker (College Station, TX), Rene Mays (Houston, TX), Coby Foster (San Diego, CA), and Ashley & Bobby Futrell (Iola, TX); great-great grandchildren Oakley & Huntley Futrell (Iola, TX); as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Mary's family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Holly Hall Retirement Community and is especially grateful to Karina McKay and her team from Three Oaks Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Holly Hall Retirement Community, 2000 Holly Hall St., Houston, TX 77054, or to a charity of your choice.