Emma Lee (Turner) Bell-Kelley, 85, of Benton Harbor, went to be the Lord on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, peacefully at home surrounded by her family.
Visitation will take place from 5-6 pm on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, with a gospel celebration following from 6-8 pm. A celebration of life home going service will be held at noon on Friday, April 19, 2024, also at the church with visitation one hour prior, from 11-noon. Interment will follow at North Shore Memory Gardens, Coloma. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Emma was born on August 7, 1938, to James and Dicie (Rowden) Turner in Deventer, MO. Professionally, she began her career as a beautician in 1965, eventually opening Bell & Harris Beauty Salon, where she served her community for many years. Emma also maintained the housekeeping for Dr. Skinner.
Known for her outgoing nature, Emma never met a stranger. She had a passion for singing and was a member of a quartet, the Melody-Aires for nearly four decades. Renowned for her cooking, she was the queen of greens and dumplings, and often fed many in the community. Known for her selflessness, she also enjoyed being a prankster, playing cards and going to the casino.
Emma’s faith was the center of her life, and she held membership at New Bethel Baptist, St. Marks, and Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church over the years, serving in many roles. Her devotion to her family was unwavering, and she was always there to support them.
Emma is survived by her children, Rose Bell-Williams, Larry (Rashonda) Bell, Emma Bell-Penn, Angelique Bell, Alexis Bell, and Darcell (Donald) Bell-Hampton; 21 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Anna McCoy; three God-sisters; six God-daughters and special friend, Queen Harris. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Dicie Turner; 1st husband, Johnnie Bell; 2nd husband, Peter Kelley; son-in-law, Isaac Williams; grandchildren, Richard Perry, Demarius Hampton and Tequilla Penn; sisters, Rosie Meridy and Johnnie Turner ; brother and Ray Turner; brother-in-law, John McCoy and God son, Rev. Rodney Lott.
Service Details
Visitation 1
When
April 18th, 2024 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Where
Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church
Address
214 E. Britain Ave.
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Visitation 2
When
April 19th, 2024 11:00am – 12:00pm
Where
Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church
Address
214 E. Britain Ave.
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Service
When
April 19th, 2024 12:00pm
Where
Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church
Address
214 E. Britain Ave.
Benton Harbor , MI 49022
Interment
Where
North Shore Memory Gardens
Address
5027 M-63
COLOMA , MI 49038