On the night of January 6, 2019 Jessica passed away after a long battle with cancer. In the days prior to her passing she was surrounded by friends and family who had been touched by her love, patience and kindness. She was 36 years old and one of the best people you could ever know.
Jessica Bell was born on April 3rd, 1982 in Helena, MT as the first of four children of Bruce and Patricia Bell. Growing up Jess developed an early love of reading as her bedtime ritual was “reading” stacks of books in her crib. She carried this love throughout her life attending her Book Club even when her health was greatly compromised by cancer. Jess took the job of oldest sibling to heart taking care of her younger three siblings as their second mother. She attended grade school and high school in Whitehall, MT excelling as a student, poet, athlete and musician and graduating the top of her class in 2000. Family was everything to Jessica. She made sure to visit her grandparents frequently, attended family reunions and always was conscious of being the best daughter she could be. Humble to the end, Jess never truly understood how beautiful, kind and talented she was.
She started Carroll College in the fall of 2000 as a Communications and Public Relations double major. At Carroll she found a great number of friends and her future husband, Adam Gill. Jess was always intelligent, but her work ethic was unmatched. She was the student that never stopped studying and was always willing to take on another opportunity. In her Junior Year she was tapped to take over the Carroll newspaper, the Prospector, mid-year after its editor quit and with only two weeks until the next issue. She hadn’t even taken a journalism class, but she wouldn’t let insurmountable difficulty stop her. She ran the paper well, putting out the remaining issues while working part time, taking a full load of classes and planning a wedding. Also while at Carroll she was in the pep band, was a manager for the girls’ basketball team, and after college, was part of the Helena State Capital Band. In 2004, she graduated from Carroll Summa Cum Laude, one of only two students that year.
After college she and Adam moved to the Twin Cities where he pursued his graduate degree. Initially work was hard to come by, but she found a reception job at a small consulting firm. Within two weeks she was promoted from receptionist and became an invaluable part of their team. When an opportunity arose to move back to Montana, she was able to take the job with her, working remotely. Even when the company was purchased, she was kept on in her distant home office because of her commitment, skill and willingness to go the extra mile.
After moving to Great Falls, Jess volunteered for the Paris Gibson Museum, the Great Falls Farmers’ Market and Pulse, the local young professionals group. She also volunteered at St. Luke the Evangelist Church as a Lector, Sacristan and Eucharistic Minister. It was in Great Falls that she and Adam became parents, adopting their first child, Peter Daniel, in an open adoption through Catholic Social Services in 2009. Jess shined in everything, but as a mother she was radiant.
She and Adam moved back to Helena in 2010 to follow work and to be closer to family. Through every move, her job came with her and grew. She developed a reputation as someone who could be incredibly patient and tactful, by Montana standards, but could never abide dishonesty or laziness.
In 2012, she gave birth to her second child Alexander Dominic. She was active in her community, volunteering to help in music classes at Jefferson Elementary, doing laundry for Family Promise, coaching her boys in basketball and floor hockey for the YMCA, and organizing the popcorn sales for Cub Scout Pack 212. Many of these were done even when she was fighting her first battle with breast cancer in 2016. Through intensive chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, she kept giving back to her community.
After cancer treatment ended in 2017 she relished family road trips to show her sons how wonderful, large and interesting the world is. At the beginning of 2018 she started Helz Belles Roller Derby training. She loved Derby and threw herself into it with the same drive and cheerful stubbornness that she approached everything she loved. Shortly after she passed her skills test, she discovered the cancer had returned and spread to her lungs and bones.
She was adamant that she was going to fight even when the odds were so slim. She fought for every minute and showed all of us how to carry such burdens with grit, grace and love. Her oldest son Peter would like everyone to know that “She was the best mom and person I ever knew and I’m so sad she had to go.” Her youngest son Alex wants everyone to know that he loved her and misses her. She is preceded in death by her aunt, Cristie Bell; her uncle, Thomas Bell; her grandmother, Cleone Bell; and her grandfather, George Chaffee. She is survived by her husband, Adam Gill; her sons, Peter and Alexander Gill; her parents, Bruce and Patty Bell; her brothers, Neal (Rissy) and Jayce (Lynsey) Bell; sister, Nicole (Eric) Hensley; her grandfather, Fred Bell; and her grandmother, Carol Chaffee and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to the Medical Oncology team at Bozeman Cancer Center, the Radiation Oncology team and ICU at St. Peter’s Health. Memorials and donations-in-lieu-of flowers may be given to Metavivor: Metastatic Breast Cancer Research and Support. Condolences and remembrances may be left at her Facebook page.
A Vigil will be held from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, January 13th at 10 Mile Creek Brewery, 48 N. Last Chance Gulch. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, January 14th at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1502 Shirley Road, Helena, MT 59602 with a reception to follow at the church. Burial will be held at a later date at Elkhorn Cemetery outside of Boulder, Montana. In lieu of flowers memorials in honor of Jessica are suggested to Metavivor by visiting http://www.metavivor.org/take-action/donate/
Service Schedule
Vigil
3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday January 13, 2019
10 Mile Creek Brewery
48 N. Last Chance Gulch
Helena, Montana 59601
Funeral Mass
11:30 a.m.
Monday January 14, 2019
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following Mass
Monday January 14, 2019
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Vigil
3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday January 13, 2019
10 Mile Creek Brewery
48 N. Last Chance Gulch
Helena, Montana 59601
Funeral Mass
11:30 a.m.
Monday January 14, 2019
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following Mass
Monday January 14, 2019
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Road
Helena, Montana 59602
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Domonique Williams says
When loosing a loved one it can be unbearable. That is why God has provided scriptures in the Bible to help ones cope with the loss. In the Bible book of Isaiah 25:8 Jehovah God promises soon to “swallow up death forever.” He also promises to bring back those who have fallen asleep in death (Acts 24:15). In a little while longer this kind of pain will be a thing of the past (Revelations 21:4). Im sorry for your loss and it is my hope these scriptures bring you comfort in this difficult time.
Nancy L Sacry says
Bruce and Patty,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and Jessica’s family.
Meliss smith says
I am so very sorry for your loss! So many prayers your way! Jessica was an amazing person!
Bill herbolich and donna herbolich says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Bill & Carol Dietz, Holly Birdine says
Our sincere thoughts and prayers that you may find peace. This is just so unfair! Jessica was a special person that we were able to know and share for such a short time. Our hope is that you remember the good times with Jessica.
Heidi Sulzdorf says
I am so heartbroken to hear of Jess’s passing. She was a light in my and many others’ lives, who I will remember with love, gratitude and affection — for her excellent qualities that are too many to list, and her endless kindness, of which she gave unstintingly. To Jess’s family, I am so, so sad for your loss, and hope you can find some peace and comfort in how much joy your daughter, sister, and wife brought into the wider world of even her more distant friends in the days to come. My heart is with you.
Burdean Oliverson says
Warmest regards and condolences to all your family.
Rita & Kerry Weightman says
Patty, Bruce and family, we cannot express how sad we are for the loss of your magnificent Jessica. She was always kind, giving and a light. All of her accomplishments spoke so much about the goodness that lived inside her. May God’s grace overwhelm you all through you the grief that comes with such a devastating loss. Our deepest sympathies.
Kathy paquin says
I first meet Jessica in daisy scouts with my dauhgter Sienna an their friend abby loros.such a special person ,the world will miss her.
Tom & Rachel Monforton says
Our sincere condolences to the Bell family. We are truly sorry for your loss. My memories of Jessica will always be of her love of reading and devotion to her family. We pray you can find peace and comfort in the days ahead. God bless.
Mike and Patty Battaiola says
We are so very, very sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful daughter, sister, wife, mom, and granddaughter. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Bill Battaiola says
Mr. and Mrs. Bell,
I’m totally shocked and heartbroken to hear this news. Jessica was the one of the kindest and most gentle people that I have ever known. I always respected her because she put forth a full effort in everything she did and she was kind to everyone. I haven’t seen her since they day we graduated from high school together but, I still remember the ABCs speech that her and Hedi gave. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Shane Callaghan says
I am so sorry for your loss. Even though she graduated 5 years earlier than I did I still remember Jessica and she has made a great impression in everyone’s life! You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Mindy Obert says
Such a beautiful person… smart, kind, ambitious, loving, giving….I could go on & on. She was such a great mom and loved her boys, husband, and family so much. She will be missed by so many of us.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Heather Ranalli says
Bruce, Patty and the entire Bell/Gill family,
I’m so incredibly sorry about the loss of Jessica. I have many fond memories of playing basketball with her. She was kind, loving, caring and a beautiful soul. I pray that each of you find some comfort during this time.
Connie Lutter says
I only knew of Jess through my son, Seth. I know she was loved and loved others well…I know she will be missed.
Praying courage, rest and an extra measure of comfort!
So sorry for your loss.
Julie Kieckbusch says
Jessica was one of my favorite students to teach and coach. I have many fond memories of Jessica during her time at WHS – especially her work ethic on the basketball court. Bruce and Patty, my thoughts are prayers are with you and your family and with Jessica’s husband and kids.
Kip Ryan says
Bruce , Patty, and family,
We are so sorry and our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Kip and Jane Ryan
Debbie Sorensen says
Oh dear friends, my heart is broken for you. I completely agree with the words Dominic shared, in that the words of Scripture give us the way to cope. While the loss and pain are so acute, know that we will be interceding before the Throne of Grace for you all, sharing your tears and trusting the heart break will be used by a merciful God.
Kimberli McCullough says
Bruce and Patty and Family,
There are no words that can explain the sorrow and pain we feel for the loss of your beautiful daughter. She
will be missed by so many. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this awful time. We are so very sorry.
Love and hugs,
Kimberli and Steven McCullough
Kat Nolen says
This just breaks our heart for all of you. So, so sorry. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
Russ & Kat Nolen
Amanda Clark says
This breaks my heart to hear. I worked with Jessica at the trucking company in early 2000’s. Not only was she so bright and capable, but I was always impressed with her genuine kindness and positivity. I had seen her around town in the last few years with her boys, and it was always clear how much she loved and doted on them. Peace and comfort to them and all of her family.
Connie Johnson says
I could not have had a better Daughter in law, she was a wonderful wife and an amazing mother. Her passing has left an unfillable hole in our family. She was a blessing in uncountable ways. Thoughtful, kind and in times of family tragedy knew exactly what to say and do. I wish I had that gift now. She touched us all in life and in losing her we will never be the same. “There are some that bring such a radiant light to this world, that even after they are gone it still shines.”
Tom & Nancy Wheeler says
Bruce, Patty & Families,
During this time of grief and loss, may you all be comforted with God’s presence and may He bring you His peace. Cherish the many happy memories you all shared! Words are hardly enough to express how sorry we are for your loss!
Our deepest and most sincere sympathy goes out to you all!
Adrienne says
Adam, Pete, and Alex. I am so sorry for your loss. She was a very kind person and I enjoyed working with her for those years at Patch. You three are in my prayers.
Miss Adrienne
Mary Blinn says
Bruce and Patty-
I was so shocked to hear this… I can’t imagine your pain. Jessica was a truly beautiful person. You are all in my prayers as you wade through these difficult days. My love to you both and to your children.
Susan and Remi Metcalf says
We are so sorry for the loss of your amazing Jessica! All our love and prayers to all of her family!
Susan and Remi Metcalf
Mary Westover says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻.
Ted Kamrud says
I am SO-SO sorry to hear the news about Jessica. She was just a joy and a great person to be around. It was a privilege to teach in 5th grade. Ted Kamrud
Peter Chicas says
It’s always excruciating to face the loss of such a beautiful soul. Jess will be deeply missed by so many. My prayers for Adam, the boys, and all of Jess’ family. God bless you and give you strength.
Jane and Doug Lowry says
Bruce, Patty, and family,
There are so words that can give you enough comfort at this most difficult time. Get strength and support from each other to get through the tough days that are ahead. Sending our deepest sympathy.
Jane and Doug Lowry
BRIAN FINNAN says
Bruce, Patty, and Family,
Mary Ann and I are so saddened to learn of your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Brian and Mary Ann Finnan
Jill Stenberg says
Bruce, Patty, and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss of your daughter. There are no words that can ease this pain. Please know that we are sending you our prayers.
Ray and Jill Stenberg
Debby Arlian says
I was so shocked to hear of Jessica’s ordeal, my heart is saddened to it’s very core. I will pray for comfort for Jess’s husband, her dear boys and of course for you, Bruce and Patty, Neal, Jayce and Nicole. There are just no words, this is a deep, hurtful loss. I pray God will wrap you in His loving arms and that you will feel His strength.
This is being sent with lots and lots of love,
Debby and Gary Arlian
Pam Braaten says
My deepest sympathy to Bruce, Patty, and Family. This is so very sad for all of you, especially Jessica’s husband and sons. May the love of God give you comfort and peace now and going forward.
Pam Braaten
Rae and Ace Walker says
We are so sorry to learn that you have lost a child. Our hearts go out to all of you. We pray for healing.
Dan & Diana Plaggemeyer says
So very sorry to hear of your loss of a wife, mother, child and sibling. Our prayers and love are with you and may you feel the peace of our loving Father during this difficult time.
Rick McIntyre says
Dear Patty and Bruce and family,
What a wonderful daughter, mother and wife. Our hearts are with you all.
Rick & Sherina McIntyre
Sandy Rux says
My heart aches for Jessica’s entire family. God must have needed another really special angel.
Aaron Hansen says
Dear Patty, Bruce and families, it is very sad to hear of your tremendous loss. My heart is with you all.
Aaron, Amy and Nadine Hansen
Tara says
I am so sorry for the family’s loss. We are all affected by death, no matter what our age is. The Bible tells us that Jehovah God sees our pain and suffering. And soon he will put an end to death for good. He also promises a resurrection of our loved ones. (John 5:28,29). I hope this brings you some comfort during this time of grief.
Austin says
I am so sorry that you’ve experienced the loss of this beautiful young person! Please know that the “God of all comfort” cares for you. (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4; 1 Peter 5:7) Many have been encouraged by learning what the Bible teaches about the condition of the dead and God’s promise of a resurrection. I hope you find comfort from Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10; Hosea 13:14; and Titus 1:2. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Donna Ecclestone says
I was a colleague with Jessica thru ASPR and Ewald. I truly enjoyed working with her. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family. She was a true gem!
Peter Gill says
I valued my mothers life more than my own, I miss her so much.