Laura S. Bell

DATELINE: PROVIDENCE

Bell, Laura S., 90, died on Friday, November 20, 2020 at home in Providence. She was the beloved wife of the late M. David Bell.

In 1967, she became the first female graduate of the Computer Science Department at Brown University.  Determined toward justice, she was instrumental in the protests that led to the desegregation of the Providence Public Schools in the early 1970’s.  She taught English as a Second Language for many years in Providence and was still teaching ESL at International House in Providence as recently as February of this year.  She was passionate about our natural environment and devoted to her cottage on an island in the St. Lawrence River.

She is survived by 3 sons, Joshua of Wakefield, Jonathan of Newport and Michael of Madison, Wisconsin, as well as 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Funeral services and Shiva will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to International House of Rhode Island 7 Stimson Avenue, Providence, RI 02906 ihouseri.org/donate-1

6 Comments

  1. STANLEY FREEDMAN
    Nov 26, 2020

    Dear Bells:
    I taught for years at Hope High with David and Laura.
    We had many nice times together. David even brought in his bass to play for my music students.
    My condolences to the boys and the twin granddaughters I had at Temple Beth El Hebrew school.
    They will live on for a blessing in your memories forever.

  2. Lorraine and Bob Kingsbury
    Nov 28, 2020

    Lorraine and I send our sincere condolences to Laura’s family. She was a long time neighbor and good friend.

  3. Ida G Millman
    Nov 29, 2020

    Her memory, and David’s blesses me and all …

    Love&Blessing&Laughter

  4. Jon Thorburn
    Dec 3, 2020

    So sorry to have heard of Laura’s passing. So many fond memories over the years at the River. May the Love and Peace of the Lord be with you all now and always.

  5. Risa Gilpin
    Dec 3, 2020

    I was so sad to learn of Laura Bell’s passing – she was such a prominent figure at International House of RI and I feel so privileged to have known her. She came to the House twice a week (even when it was so difficult for her to get up the stairs!!!) to teach Beginning English to international visitors to Rhode Island. No subject was taboo, and her students gained confidence and deep knowledge from their beloved teacher. Frank, straight forward, and with a great sense of subtle humor – we will miss her like crazy! Deepest sympathies to her family

  6. Carolyn & Jeff Weiser
    Dec 4, 2020

    We were so glad that we had the chance to meet her at the Sams’ wedding. She was truly an amazing person. May her memory be a blessing.

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