Gloria Highsmith Bell

On Friday, January 8, 2021 Gloria Elnora Highsmith Bell was called to “glory”.  She was born October 5, 1942, in Williamston, North Carolina, to the Late Mack and Sweetie Bell Highsmith.  Gloria was one of 11 children. James Linwood, Herbert, Carl, Geraldine, Alton, Douglas, Magdalene, Vera, Lorraine (all preceding in death).  Her surviving siblings are Clarence Highsmith and Margaret A. Daniels.   

In Williamston, North Carolina is where she met and fell in love with her high school sweetheart Oliver Bell.  After graduating from E.J. Hayes Highschool in Williamston, Gloria Highsmith moved to New York City with her brother.  Of course Oliver followed, and the two were married in 1962.  To this union four children were born.  In 1983 Gloria accepted a job that would become her passion, and also her career.  For over 25 years Gloria worked diligently at Queens Borough Public Library.  During her years of service at the library Gloria connected people to books and to each other.  She created a safe haven for children, and connected neighborhoods to the world of reading.  Gloria was also a faithful member of Mt. Siani Cathedral COGIC for over 40 years.  She served as a deaconess and a choir member. She connected with so many people in the community and in the church.  Gloria loved her family, reading, sewing and Weight Watchers.  Two things Gloria always wanted to know is…If you went to church and if you were watching your weight!  Her heart was true to both, and she wanted to share the love of both with everyone.

Gloria and Oliver were married for 52 years when he passed away.  Gloria leaves to cherish her daughters Felicia Bell-Cooper (husband Willie Cooper) from Syracuse New York, Sheila Wiggins (husband Andre Wiggins) from Scotch Plains, New Jersey, Kescha Bell-Ross (husband Will J. Ross) from Breinigsville, Pennsylvania, and his son Oliver Bell, Jr. (wife Monay Bell) from Brooklyn, New York. Grandchildren Taisya, Jason, Nia, Keira, Stephon, Demetri, Deven, Kaelah, Jaelyn, Donovan, Gloria, and two great grandchildren Nihy-Leigh and Niahery.  Along with a host of nieces and nephews; god-children and friends.