Bell Family Funeral Services History
With a caring heart and gentle hand, we, at Bell Family Funeral Services help you create a funeral ceremony unique as the life lived.
Our vast experience of caring began with our Uncle Edward "Ed" Bell for families for over 75 years. Along with our understanding of the importance of ceremony we will help you discover the best way to pay tribute to a life well lived.
Whether traditional or unique, our shared goal is to help you create a service that is affordable and memorable. As we continue to live our motto, "Generations of Quality Service".
The Bell Family thanks you for allowing us to be of service as you plan a farewell ceremony.
Founded in 1930 by Edward Bell, Bell Funeral Home began in Mr. Bell's sister's home in the 400 block of East 9th Street, moved to 9th and Wilson Streets, and eventually 909 Clifford Brown Walk.
Mr. Bell's training began at Rose Funeral Home, which stressed providing excellent compassionate service to the community. He formally studied at Eckels College of Embalming and Sanitary Science, graduating in 1928, and opened his own establishment in 1930.
Edward Bell was the first African-American Deputy Coroner in Delaware. He was also the first African-American member of the Penal Board for the State of Delaware. He served two terms as Wilmington City Councilman (R) and owned and operated the county-wide Bell Taxi Company for five years.
Edward R. Bell died in 1983. His wife Eva and nephew James Llewellyn continued the mortuary business until Eva's death in 1988, and the business passed to Llewellyn. Upon Llewellyn Bell's retirement in 2013, his son Kip became the 3rd generation to work within the business until 2023.
The Bell family service extends to community activity in Wilmington's Eastside, and the City in general. Their many awards include recognition by the Delaware Historical Society as one of the oldest African American businesses in the State of Delaware. The Bell name is synonymous with quality service in their niche industry and in the State of Delaware.
