Ada Marie Bell

Ada Marie Bell, 72, passed December 24, 2024.

Ada Marie was born in Caribou, Maine in September of 1952 and grew up in Limestone, Maine. She escaped poverty via the United States Army where she served as a cryptographer in the Women’s Army Corps. Using the GI Bill and her exceptional brain, she earned three degrees at The Ohio State University, including a PhD in Labor Relations. She was not a fan of the school’s athletics, however, and would hilariously never answer the call of “O-H”.

She was a passionate professor who taught at several universities including Kent State and the University of Manitoba. Her adventurous spirit guided her to live and work abroad in Canada, Ireland, Afghanistan, and Mali. She hit the open road often, exploring places both new and known to her.

Ada is survived by her daughter Meghan Bell Sickmeier, grand dog Diggy Smalls, sisters Jean, Patricia, Camilla, and Molly Jo, brothers Andy, Bob, and Vince, dozens of nieces and nephews, many dear friends, and neighbor dogs all over the country who will miss her walks and treats. She is preceded in death by her mother Elfreda Kathleen Finnemore Bell, father Camille Vincent Bell, and brothers Gilbert and Paul.

She will be remembered for her quick wit and humor, reliable and generous friendship, and a do no harm but take no shit attitude. She loved music, dancing, an ocean’s breeze, and the sun on her face.

She was brilliant and powerful, kind and magnificent. Our lives were brighter for her presence, and we will miss her light terribly.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a women’s shelter in your community. You are encouraged to do a little dance when you think of Ada Marie. We expect her energy — wherever it has transferred — will send a little boogie back.

Condolences to the family, and your memories of Ada Marie are welcomed at [email protected]