Mary Kathryn Bell

Mary Kathryn Bell passed peacefully from this life on May 29, 2026 after a brief illness. Mary Kathryn was born January 19, 1941 in Bloomington, Indiana to parents William G. Johnson and Eva F. (Fox) Johnson Wright White. Mary Kathryn was a 1959 graduate of Bloomington High School. She married John (Butch) R Helms in 1964 and they shared daughter Shawn together. Mary Kathryn was then blessed to marry the love of her life, Loren Keith Bell in 1978. Mary Kathryn worked for Root Accounting faithfully from 1973 until her retirement in 2025. She was a member of Kappa Delta Phi for over 50 years, often serving as Treasurer. As a member of Kappa Delta Phi she was involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors. Additionally she has been a longtime supporter of I.U. Bloomington Hospice. Personal hobbies included sewing, knitting, and needlework and during her daughters’ youth, she was an avid band booster. In her later years she became a connoisseur of fine white wines. Mary Kathryn was there to support her family in large or small ways; from attending ball games locally, to traveling to Chicago at the drop of a hat to assist/spend time with her grandchildren. Mary Kathryn’s family will fondly remember her hosting large Christmas parties and miss her famous Beef and Noodles and Chex Mix. Mary Kathryn is survived by her daughters Shawn (Helms) Featherstone (Jonathan) of San Diego, CA and Angela (Bell) Hooten (Jeff) of Bloomington, IN. Grandchildren Justin Brosmer, Jared Brosmer, Olivia Featherstone (Josh) and Sloane Featherstone. Great Grandchildren Novaley, Ava, Crew, Capri, Adaline, and Knox. Mary Kathryn was preceded in death by husband Keith Bell and brother Bill (Bud) Johnson. Arrangements have been entrusted to Allen Funeral Home. Funeral and Crematory 4155 South Old State Road 37. Funeral services will be Thursday June 4, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. There will be a brief visitation prior to services, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Allen Funeral Home. Graveside services will immediately follow at Clear Creek Cemetery. The family requests that contributions be made to IU Bloomington Hospice in lieu of flowers. Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with family and friends at www.allencares.com

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Mary Kathryn Bell

May 29, 2026