Raymond R. Bell 1930-2025
BRACEVILLE — Raymond R. Bell passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the age of 94.
He was born Sept. 17, 1930, to the late Ola E. and Lynn F. Bell.
Ray was a lifelong resident of Braceville Township. A proud graduate of Braceville High School, Class of 1949, Ray’s career was as diverse as it was long-standing. Initially, he owned and operated a Sunoco service station in Warren. He then dedicated 25 years of his life to Rockwell International. After the plant closed, he began working for the Ohio Turnpike Commission and then the LaBrae School system. Later in life, he pursued a third-degree stationary steam engines and boilers license. He ultimately retired from Bristol Schools. Ray also gave back to his community as a fireman and EMT with the Braceville Volunteer Fire Department.
Ray was passionate about farming and he loved collecting trains. Ray also had a talent for refinishing antique furniture. He also enjoyed the customers he had at the Buckeye Worm Farm.
Above all, Ray was a family man.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Edwina M. Bell; his brother, Frank Bell; and his parents.
His legacy continues through his daughter, Claudia Furlan (Cy) of New Wilmington, Pa.; and his sons, Mark Bell of Niles and Theodore Bell (Diane) of Braceville Township. He thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren, Noah Furlan, and Sarah, Maelee and Preston Bell.
The conversations, whether while tending to his Buckeye Worm Farm or sharing stories with friends, will be dearly missed. Raymond R. Bell’s journey of life was one well-lived and well-loved, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Friends may call 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday, July 28, 2025, with a service to follow, at Borowski Memorial Home, 30 Ridge Road, Newton Falls, OH 44444.
Interment will be held in Newton Township Cemetery, Newton Falls.
Memorial contributions can be made in memory of Raymond to the Braceville Historical Society, 4911 Shanks Phalanx Road, Southington, OH 44470.
Please visit www.borowskimemorialhome.com to send condolences to the family.
(special notice)