Lillian Bell-Elder

Lillian Bell-Elder, affectionately known as “Lil” by those close to her, passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at the age of 74 in Fairfield, Ohio. Lillian was born to the late William Bell Sr. and Lillie Lee Bell (Hargrow) in Cincinnati, Ohio, on January 19, 1949. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde G. Elder, Jr., and her parents, William Bell Sr., and Lillie Bell  (Hargrow), who was the anchor of her life. Lillian lived her life with kindness, grace, compassion, and a love for beauty, family, and friends. She expressed gratitude for her long life, which was full of wonderful people and experiences until the very end.

Lillian’s life can be encapsulated by three words: Family, Friends, and Fun. She relished in these aspects of her life and had an abundance of them throughout her 74 years. Lillian’s friendships were especially important to her, and she developed them at various stages of her lifetime, most lasting throughout her life. Her friendships encompassed all aspects of her life, from phone calls and chats to family outings, sharing informal and formal meals and entertainment, class reunions, and near and far adventures. Lillian was known for being a phenomenal friend who would drive you to appointments just as readily as she would join you for lunch. She was the type of friend who would drop off a bouquet of flowers at your front door, send a card of encouragement, and pray for and with you just because. Lillian knew that friendships, like gardens, take work to maintain, and she was willing to put in the effort and reap the rewards of love, support, warmth, and joy.

Lillian had a successful healthcare administration, insurance claims, and sales career before becoming employed with Procter & Gamble. Lillian dedicated 29 years of her professional life to Procter & Gamble, where she served as the QA SO Beauty & LA Team Leader before retirement. Lillian’s commitment to excellence and exceptional leadership skills greatly contributed to the organization’s success. Her pleasant disposition made her a very approachable, well-liked, well-respected person. She also respected the opinions and abilities of others and was a life-long learner, often reaching out to others to gain new knowledge and skills.

Lillian touched the lives of countless individuals through her active involvement in her community and church. She believed in the power of giving back and volunteered her time and expertise to various charitable organizations. Her selflessness and kindness left a lasting impact on the community she loved so dearly.

Lillian’s love of music, dancing, and being surrounded by family and friends continued throughout her life. She enjoyed getting together with friends and family and curated a warm and welcoming home. Her smile could light up any room on the most difficult day. During their first meeting, Clyde G. Elder Jr. was attracted to Lillian’s smile and love of life. After marrying in 1975, Clyde and Lillian had many adventures as a couple over their nearly 30 years of marriage before Clyde’s passing in October 2002.

Lillian’s surviving family members will deeply miss her vibrant spirit and warm heart. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Jakeisha Bell-Robinson (Julian Sr.), and her adoring grandchildren, Langston, Ellington, Jillian, and Julian Jr. Lillian’s sisters, Doris V. Williams (Robert) and Olivia Ann Price, and her brothers, William Bell Jr., and Terrence Bell, will forever cherish the memories they shared with their sister. Her nephews, Reginald Bell Sr. and Damian Bell (Inda), and her nieces, Kelly J. Bell, Chanda Bell, and Kristen Bell, will always treasure the moments and love they shared with Lillian.

Lillian’s warm smile, infectious laughter, and unwavering optimism brought joy to those around her. She had an innate ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved. Lillian’s gentle presence was a source of comfort and strength to her family and friends, and her memory will forever live on in their hearts.

A service of remembrance to honor Lillian’s life and legacy will be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at the Norman Chapel at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum. Friends, family,            colleagues, and associates are invited to send flowers to Thompson Hall & Jordan Funeral Home at 11400 Winton Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45240.

In this time of loss, let us all remember the cherished moments we shared with Lillian. As we reflect on her life, let us find solace in knowing that her legacy continues through her family and the many lives she touched. May her soul find eternal peace, and may we find comfort in the laughter and love she shared with us and in the memories she has left behind.

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Lillian Bell-Elder, please visit our Tribute Store.