Jessie Bell “Bea” Lapsley Bell was born on April 2, 1941, in Uniontown, Alabama, and passed away on May 31, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio. She was 84 years old.
She was the beloved daughter of Uriel Lapsley and Elizabeth Laster, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also reunited in eternity with her sons, Jesse Lee Lapsley and Donzel Lapsley. From a young age, Jessie understood the value of education, attending Lincoln Normal School in Marion and Hale County Training School in Greensboro.
Jessie accepted Christ at an early age and remained a devoted Christian throughout her life. She was a faithful and active member of New Fellowship Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio, under the pastorship of Pastor Frederick Knuckles, and remained deeply connected to her spiritual roots through First Baptist Church in Newbern, Alabama, under the pastorship of Pastor James Williams.
Known for her kindness, quiet demeanor, and unwavering faith, Jessie was a woman of great prayer who lifted up the names of family, friends, and even strangers every morning with her prayer group. She lived by the scripture, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people.” (1 Timothy 2:1)
She was a passionate advocate for her community, dedicating herself to mentoring, organizing, and helping shape elections and policies with her voice for justice and change. Her family tree continues to bloom through her treasured grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she cherished deeply.
She is survived by her devoted daughters, Viola Bester and Dianne Lewis; her two cherished sisters, Ella Lue Brown and Allain Bates; and her treasured grandchildren: Caesare (Andrea) Lewis, Seekeri Lapsley, Jalias (Demario) King, Corrie (Leanna) Bates, Alonzo Harris, Jr., Kayla Lapsley, Padra Harris, Keana Harris, Michael (Loreal) Bates, and Xavier Dolyens. She also leaves behind 14 great-grandchildren and a host of other family members and friends who will carry her spirit forward.
She is lovingly remembered by her beloved godchildren: Velma Jones, Shirleen Parker, Patricia Jackson, Debra Thomas, and Henry Jackson; and by her treasured friends: Carrie Knox, Rosie Edwards, Gloria Hatch, Hattie Hollis, Earnestine Calhoun, Curtis Wilson, Juanita Marsh, Brenda Murray, and Annette Dismuke.
Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 296 Beech Street, Newbern, Alabama. Pastor James Williams officiated.
