Mrs. Esel D. Bell

Esel D. Bell was born on December 18, 1927 in Magnolia, Texas. She was the third of four children born to Floyd Davis and Vera Lee “Datchie” Walker Davis. Upon graduating from Conroe High School, she attended Prairie View A&M College where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Home Economics and a master’s degree in Counseling. Upon graduation she was employed by the U.S. Post Office at Prairie View A&M College, where she worked for 38 years until her retirement in 1989. On March 20, 1948, Esel married her college sweetheart, Willie J. Bell, Jr. (Deceased). To their sixty-three year union there are (four) children – Chandra Marie, Felecia Denise, Willie James and Esel Andrea. Esel was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She had a strong devotion for her family and cherished every moment spent with them. She was very proud of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. With a charming personality, a kind heart and huge inviting smile, she had the ability to make friends with people everywhere. Esel was a dedicated and faithful member of Mt. Corinth Baptist Church. She was also very dedicated to the Prairie View community. She was an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and also a member of the Order of Eastern Star. Additionally, she was a member of the Prairie View Alumni Association, Retired Teachers Association, Athletic Club and numerous other organizations. Esel received many awards, recognitions and proclamations over her lifetime. None is more special and historic than having the local Post Office Building named after her on June 16, 1992. Esel was preceded in death by her parents – Floyd Davis and Vera Lee “Datchie” Walker Davis. She leaves behind her sister Jessica Butler-Grant (John); her children – Chandra Johnson, Felecia Compton (Wayne), Willie J. Bell, III (Collis), Esel Andrea Miller; grandchildren – Demetria (Donnie), Charles Jr. (Chevelle), Scheherazade, Schelita, Candice, Willie IV, Gary Jr. (Lindsey), Matthew (Victoria); great-grandchildren – Brooklyn, Braylon, KeChawn, Keon, Kierria, Gary III, Kandace and a host of family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations & contributions can be made to the Willie & Esel Bell Scholarship Fund; please make checks payable to Prairie View A&M University, where they can be mailed to P.O. Box 519; MS 1200 Drew Complex 209, Prairie View, Texas 77446. Thank You Family of Esel D. Bell

Mrs. Esel D. Bell

December 18, 1927 - June 19, 2014