Carolyn Jean Bell, lovingly known to many as Jean, left us on September 30, 2025, at the age of 80, in Newburgh, Indiana, enveloped by the love and memories of a family that cherished her deeply. Jean entered this world on May 2, 1945, in Washington, Indiana, born to the proud parents John Woodruff and Marie Miles Woodruff.
A proud 1963 graduate of St. John’s Catholic High School, Jean’s journey in life was marked by a dedication to her family and the family business. As the heart and soul behind Gary’s Garage, she was well-known for her hard work, ensuring the business thrived by running parts and contributing to day-to-day operations with both charm and efficiency. Jean’s unwavering support and commitment were as steadfast as her love for her family. Jean was also a devoted and active member of St. John’s Catholic Church.
Jean’s life was beautifully interwoven with her beloved husband, Gary Bell. United in marriage on May 1, 1965, at St. Mary’s Church, their bond was a testament of love, friendship, and shared values, until Gary’s passing in 2000 . Their lives together were a mosaic of shared moments and enduring love, covering a spectrum of joys and challenges.
Left to honor Jean’s enduring legacy are her two devoted sons, Michael “Mike” Bell (Terri) and Richard “Rick” Bell. Jean relished her role as a grandmother to Collin Bell (Alyssa), Corbin Bell (Kennedy), Olivia, Garrett, and Griffin Bell, and as a great-grandmother to Bennett Bell. Each one held a special place in her heart, as she did in theirs—especially when she indulged them with her cooking and playtime. Her love also extended to her siblings, a twin sister Marilyn “Jane” and a sister, Mary Katherine, both of whom preceded her in death.
Jean was a woman whose kindness was felt not only by those closest to her but by everyone around her. She devoted much of her time to visiting the sick. Her hands, always busy, could be found most days tending to her flowers and perfecting her yard—activities she found immensely gratifying. These surroundings reflected her care and attention—a parallel to how she nurtured her relationships.
There will be a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, October 3, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church with Father Kenneth Walker presiding. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery. The family welcomes visitors from 9AM until the time of service on Friday, October 3, 2025 also at the church. Online condolences may be left at www.gillsince1872.com. Contributions may be left to St. Mary’s Cemetery for groundskeeping.
