Brenda Shipman Bell

December 17, 1943 - July 5, 2022
Brenda Shipman Bell

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Mama was born on December 17th, 1943 in Wilmington, NC, and freed from her pain and struggles, July 5th, 2022.

She was a sweet, simple, southern homebody all her life, and an avid reader. Through her beloved books, Mama got to enjoy many different lives and adventures from the comfort of the home she shared with her husband, Robert ‘Nelson’ Bell, Sr. for 46 years. Married in 1961, August 13th, would have been their 61st anniversary, 61/61 was the goal she was trying to reach. We told her she reached it before her passing.

Mama/Nanny/Nana (lovingly by her grandchildren), loved to cook, and to her, food was love and southern food was love on a buttered biscuit or a perfect pancake sopped in syrup with extra crispy bacon. She was selfless in life and put her family’s interests before her own, and deserved so much more love, gratitude and credit than our words and actions could ever truly convey. Mama was the glue that held our family together, who made this house a home. She welcomed every person who entered, with a fresh cup of coffee, a cold glass of sweet tea, some good advice (whether you liked it or not), and a full belly when they left.

Mama made things happen. She provided over 30 years of treasured family memories, vacationing in our home away from home, Sugar Mountain N.C. every October. Our family, plus some, would gather to see the colorful fall leaves, local sight seeing, fun loving marshmallow fights and the ever elusive, 32nd annual, first ever, never happened, Horror Hike! Through these adventures, we learned to appreciate that there can be beauty in dying and letting go. A good life is like a Fall leaf that bursts rich and vibrant, then gently falls to earth, nourishing the roots and branches of the tree it’s left behind.

Mama enjoyed giving and sharing experiences with her children and grandchildren, and was the focal point and the root of all things good and meaningful in our lives. She was an advocate for women, children and animal rights, and proudly let her vote speak for those who, many times, could not speak for themselves.

Mama is on to her next chapter, her next adventure… we will take her lead and walk the rest of our lives enriched with the memories and life lessons she provided every step of the way. We hope to live our lives in ways that honor hers. Rest in Peace sweet Mama/Nanny/Nana, we will see you in the turn of a page, like leaves on the wind, until we see you again..

Children/Nanny’s babies:
Robert ‘Robbie’ Nelson Bell, Jr. (Jeannine), children: Garrett (wife, Madison) Bell, Erin (husband, Owen) Bell Wooten, Rachel Bell. Bridget Bell Palmer, children: Jillian Alane Palmer (Matt), Richard ‘Shane’ Palmer (fiancee Lauren).
Ryan Neal Bell, wife Kayla Danielle Bell, and Nanny’s (youngest) baby, Caedyn Ryne Bell. She wanted to live long enough for him to remember her, and because if her strong will, she did.

Sisters, Sandra Cayton, Marsha Kanapaux, and Jackie LaBrecque
Brothers, Jimmy Newton, Kevin Newton (d), and Greg Newton
And special, life long best friend, Sarah Jernigan

Novant NHRMC: CVICU, MICU and 7th floor staff, the main characters in the last chapter of Mama’s journey, we would like to thank you for the expressions of love, care, compassion and dignity for Mama and the family, especially during this, our most difficult chapter. We are humbly grateful to so many of you, for so many reasons.

Mama loved all children and animals, so in lieu of flowers, please donate to your local children’s organization or animal rescue, in her honor.

Share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099.

Tribute Wall

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  • December 15, 2022
    Bridget posted an image:
    December 17th, Happy Heavenly Birthday Mama. We love you so much and are missing you every day in every way.
    December 17th, Happy Heavenly Birthday Mama. We love you so much and are missing you every day in every way.

  • October 26, 2022
    Vanessa Teasley says:
    I met Ms. Brenda in 2016. She was such a sweet lady, very personable, and considerate of others. I was convinced that she was a sincere, honest, and kind-hearted woman from the moment we spoke over the phone. She would talk about her husband and family and precious babyboy, Caedyn. She was the beautiful soul, that found my wedding rings and returned them. We were able to maintain our relationship by means of phone calls and written letters and cards ever since. She will be missed and remembered by both my husband, Vincent and I. We send our condolences and deepest sympathy to her loving husband, Mr. Nelson and the family!

  • September 12, 2022
    Brenda and Riley West says:
    I don't know how I missed knowing this but I just saw it when looking up someone else. I am so terribly sorry to hear of Brenda's passing. I hadn't seen her in years but I always considered she and Nelson and kids friends. She was such a wonderful person and true friend. I pray peace for each of you during this rough time.

  • August 12, 2022
    Bridget Palmer says:
    It's been 61 years since Mama and Daddy married in 1961. She proved through her life, she was in it for better or worse. What started as love between the two, quickly grew into love for us children and grandchildren. I could write a book about her selflessness and determination, putting her family first. Anyone who knew her knows she was strong willed, and that carried over to her protection for the family. Though she is not with us physically, she is with us in spirit and memories, and long standing family history and traditions. There is not a day that goes by that she isn't thought of and felt. August 13th, 2022, happy heavenly Anniversary Mama, we love and miss you so...

  • August 08, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    August 13th, 1961
    August 13th, 1961

  • August 08, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    A love without end..
    A love without end..

  • July 21, 2022
    Kris Stevens says:
    Brenda had such a wonderful laugh. It was powerful and joyful and always made me smile to hear her enjoying the company of family and friends.

  • July 21, 2022
    Kayla and Ryan Bell posted an image:
    Caedyn's first Halloween all dressed up
    Caedyn's first Halloween all dressed up

  • July 21, 2022
    The Bell family says:
    There was a glitch, and if you commented on here but do not see it posted, to please redo it.

  • July 21, 2022
    Nelson Bell says:
    To my Sweetheart 'Bren'- The Story of 'We' The first time I saw you, it was love at first sight. Contrary to popular belief it happens. I had just passed my driver's license test and was washing my brother Jimmy's car, so I could get to drive. You walked two houses down to say hello. 'We' were both too young to date, but you were Always on my Mind, (thanks Willie - 'we' would both laugh) As 'we' got older, we began to date and became inseparable. I worked and I bought my first car and 'we' were together everyday, at lunch through your high school years, and always on the 'we'ekends. I proposed and 'we' decided to get married on August 13th 1961, the date which my parents, grandparents and great grandparents were all married, with all lasting over 50 years. You quickly took on the world's most unappreciated job..wife and Mama, homemaker and housekeeper, and always a staunch advocate for family, personal friends, women, children and animals (except for water bugs - 'we'd both laugh again). You did it with selflessness and love. This is the longest 'we've ever been apart. My heart is broken. I miss you so much, you were not just my best friend, you were my only friend. You not only had my back, you had my front, and everything that mattered in my life. You held my hand and held me, and held it all together. 'We' held it down for 61 years (Aug 13th), you and me, 'we' were always a 'We'. I Love You Sweetheart.. Always did and Always will! Nels (Robert Nelson Bell Sr.)

  • July 17, 2022
    Caroline Hines says:
    Sending prayers and hugs to your family during time of loss. I have great memories of watching football games on TV on Sunday afternoons with Brenda and her family. I had my first peanut butter and apple jelly on a trip with her and her family to the beach. If you were one of the kids in the neighborhood you were treated just like one of her children. I always enjoy anytime I could spend with her and her family.

  • July 13, 2022
    Kay Shipman Fryar says:
    Tears welled in my eyes when I read this beautiful tribute to Brenda. It is for sure she was well loved by her family and all she met. Brenda and I are first cousins, born six months apart. I loved visiting her house in Sunset Park when we were very young children, and playing in her backyard playhouse with Brenda and Sandra. Aunt Francis and her mom, Eloise were warm and welcoming to our family. Family changes pulled us kids apart, but we met off and on during our school years, and again when we both were employed at UNCW. She always kept her vivacious, youthful demeanor and it was always a joy to see her. Her memory is cherished.

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Word traveler
    Word traveler

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    From Mama's scrap book
    From Mama's scrap book

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Mountains Jill, Shane, and Garrett w Nanny n Poppa
    Mountains Jill, Shane, and Garrett w Nanny n Poppa

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Fam4
    Fam4

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Fam3
    Fam3

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Fam2
    Fam2

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Family food = LOVE
    Family food = LOVE

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Shane, Garrett, Erin and Jill
    Shane, Garrett, Erin and Jill

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Bridget
    Bridget

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Caedyn
    Caedyn

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Shane
    Shane

  • July 09, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Jillian
    Jillian

  • July 09, 2022
    Patsy Farrow says:
    I am so very sad to hear of the passing of Brenda. I have known the Newton’s/Shipman’s most of my life. Brenda and Nelson lived near my sister and brother-in-law (Betty &Wilton Leeuwenburg) in Lake Forest years ago also. I had the privilege of working with Brenda at Walmart when it first opened at Monkey Junction. She was so sweet and loving, not to mention a hoot to be around. I know she loved her family and friends more than anything. Prayers to you all in this heartbreaking time.

  • July 08, 2022
    Linda s Sherrill says:
    I'm sorry for your loss . I had the pleasure to meet Brenda once through her sister Marsha who I love dearly ...Prayers for each and every one of you I know she will be missed !

  • July 08, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Mama, Ryan and Bridget
    Mama, Ryan and Bridget

  • July 08, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Jill, Shane and Bridget
    Jill, Shane and Bridget

  • July 08, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Family
    Family

  • July 08, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Robbie, Jeannine and Bridget
    Robbie, Jeannine and Bridget

  • July 08, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Favorite spot, reading a book
    Favorite spot, reading a book

  • July 07, 2022
    Ricky Meeks says:
    My thoughts with Brenda’s family members. Bridget brought me to the house must been one fall day beautiful memories great fellowship food too. Brenda was a happy person incredible beautiful smile. God Bless wonderful memories and years given to her. In Loving Remembrance !! 🌹

  • July 07, 2022
    Becky Bennett says:
    What a wonderful tribute to your sweet Momma! I teared up reading this. Beautifully written and with such heartfelt thoughts! Well done!

  • July 07, 2022
    Linda Wooley says:
    To the Bell family: our hearts go out to you during this time of sorrow. Your mother was a beautiful person. She will always be with each of you in you hearts, your memories, and watching each of you closely from above until you all shall meet again. Heaven has gained a beautiful Angel now free of pain and suffering. God bless each of you and provide you with love and peace. Linda, Bob, Kenny, and Kyle Wooley

  • July 07, 2022
    Bridget Palmer posted an image:
    Nanny Shane and Jill
    Nanny Shane and Jill

  • July 07, 2022
    Marsha Kanapaux says:
    She was my oldest sister but she also was the oldest half sister to Jr. Shipman (deceased), Faye Byrd, Bobby Shipman, and Michael Shipman as well as those listed in her obituary. I love her and will miss her.

  • July 07, 2022
    Bo says:
    I loved her like a big sister as I thought of Nelson like a brother. We had some good times and to many laughs to ever count. I will miss her but always have a smile on my face when I think of her. That’s just how Brenda made you feel.

  • July 07, 2022
    Bobby and Susie Odham says:
    We are so sorry for the loss of Brenda. If it weren’t for her I would have never been married . 50 years ag she took me to get my Mother to sign the papers so Bobby and I could be married. Brenda, Nelson, Robbie and Brigette were our witnesses at the wedding. We even spent the night at their place that night. We have had lots of coffee and a lot of great talks and food at the bar at Brenda’s as so many others have. We love you Aunt Brenda. Thanks for the memories.

  • July 07, 2022
    Erin posted an image:
    Some of Nanny’s grandkids - she was the best grandma!
    Some of Nanny’s grandkids - she was the best grandma!

  • July 07, 2022
    Erin posted an image:
    Wedding picture💗
    Wedding picture💗

  • July 07, 2022
    Erin posted an image:
    1 month of marriage & 60 years of marriage <3
    1 month of marriage & 60 years of marriage <3

  • July 07, 2022
    Erin posted an image:
    Love birds
    Love birds

  • July 07, 2022
    Vanessa Potts says:
    Sending you all my love. Mama was such a beautiful soul and blessing to everyone who was fortunate enough to have her in their lives. ❤

  • July 07, 2022
    Jerri Robertson says:
    I'm so sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure meeting Brenda when I use to live in Wilmington NC. She was very kind to me. And gave me great advice when I was going through some things in my life. I'm so thankful that God put her in my path for a short time in my life. I will never forget her. I will continue to keep everyone in my prayers. May God keep you in His loving care always.

  • July 07, 2022
    Santana Bennett says:
    So Sorry For Your Loss Bridget Wish I Could Have Met Her My Sweet Friend 💜

  • July 07, 2022
    Shane says:
    I love you Nanny and will forever miss you. Thank you for helping raise me when I was young and for continuing to care for me as I’ve grown up. I’ll only eat pancakes they way you made them. Love you

  • July 07, 2022
    daughter14 posted an image:


  • July 07, 2022
    Daughter13 posted an image:


  • July 07, 2022
    Daughter12 posted an image:


  • July 07, 2022
    Daughter1 posted an image:


  • July 07, 2022
    Colleen posted an image:


  • July 07, 2022
    Bridget posted an image:


  • July 07, 2022
    wfcobits posted an image: