Francis D. Bell

November 27, 1937 - September 29, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our funny, kind-hearted father Dr. Francis D. Bell, 86, of Newburyport, MA. Born and raised in Newburyport, Frank attended the Jackman School and Newburyport High School, graduating in 1956. After graduation, he headed to California to pursue his dreams of becoming an actor. Upon receiving his SAG-AFTRA card,
he landed ensemble roles in radio and television commercials, Playhouse 90, and did stunt work for the Rawhide series. During this time, Frank pursued acting classes at UCLA, dabbled as a private detective at the Pinkerton agency and was a California Golden Gloves boxer. After being drafted by the US Army in 1961, Frank returned to Newburyport and married the love of his life, Joyce (Brown) Bell in 1962. Upon honorable discharge in 1963, he pivoted his career dreams and attended Palmer College of Chiropractic, graduating in 1967. As the first Chiropractor in
Newburyport, Frank used his comedic charm and healing hands to improve the lives of all those who knew him.

Frank loved the city of Newburyport and served on many councils and boards of organizations throughout the years including, Ward 3 City Councilor, The Institution for Savings, The Griffin Home for Aged Men, the Civic League, Newburyport Rotary Club, the Salvation Army, and the Sons and Daughters of the First Settlers of Newbury. Frank will always be remembered as the “house” emcee for the AJH Follies, the Opportunity Workshop Auctions, the Rotary Penny Sale and many, many more events and celebrations.

During retirement, Frank and his wife of 56 years, Joyce, spent time with friends and family at their Florida home as well as in Newburyport and Salisbury. He enjoyed taking rides on his scooter and in his 1971 Karmen Ghia, always living life to its fullest.

Frank is predeceased by his beloved wife, Joyce (Brown) Bell; his parents James and Lucinda Bell of Newburyport and his siblings: Helen, Rita, Jimmy, Fred, and Kenny. He is survived by his sister, Barbara Welch, of Newburyport; his loving children Erick D. Bell and wife Katy of Haverhill, MA; his daughter Dr. Kristen E. Lazzaro and husband Tom and his cherished grandson, Nicholas of Fremont, NH.

We hope your hearts will always be filled with joy, laughter, and friendship when you look back on your memories of Frank.

An hour of visitation will be held at Elliot, Woodworth and Rogers Family Funeral Home,35 Green, St. Newburyport on October 18, 2024 from 4:00 to 5:00 PM., immediately followed by the Celebration of Life Service at the funeral home at 5:00 PM. A burial service will be held at a later date privately with family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Frank’s honor, to the Griffin Home, P.O. Box 625, Newburyport MA 01950. Alternatively, please consider donating to the Newburyport Salvation Army at: www.SalvationArmyMA.org/Newburyport