Bell, Virginia (Gates)

Age 76, was called home to her Lord on September 21, 2024. Born 1948 in Lansing, Michigan, graduated from Michigan State University (BS: Physical Education, MA: Secondary Education) and Eastern Michigan University (Ed.D.- Educational Leadership).

Ginny’s love of children and animals was the base for her lifework. She began her teaching career in the Williamston Community Schools and later in the Ann Arbor Public Schools. During her Ann Arbor career, she taught at Tappan & Forsythe Middle School and Roberto Clemente Development Center. She also served the school district as a Health and Physical Education Curriculum Coordinator, Huron High School Class Principal, and Burns Park Elementary School Principal. In addition to her educational career, she previously held directorships with the Arizona Humane Society and the Humane Society of Huron Valley. 

Ginny was a lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church and served various Presbyterian churches in many roles. She served as an Elder at Lumen Christi Presbyterian (Illinois), Norcross Presbyterian (Georgia), and First Presbyterian (Ann Arbor, MI). Ginny also served as a Deacon, Sunday School teacher, Mission Chair, and Moderator of Presbyterian Women at First Presbyterian, Ann Arbor. She participated in several mission trips and the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage, Spain. 

Community service included previously serving on the Board of Directors for Friends In Deed, an inter-faith non-profit organization that serves the needy, and to several local elementary schools and the Hamburg library with the READ (Reading Education Assistance Dog) program. 

Ginny was married to Brian Bell and he survives her. She is survived by her daughter, Lynn Gates.

Cremation has taken place with the final rest at the First Presbyterian Garden, Ann Arbor. A celebration of life will be held 2:00 PM Monday September 30th, at 1432 Washtenaw Ave. Ann Arbor.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Presbyterian Women Scholarship Fund or Resident Ministers Fund, First Presbyterian Church, Ann Arbor, or Friends In Deed, Ypsilanti, Michigan.

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