Smithfield – Elsie Virginia Armstrong Bell peacefully made her transition from this world Sunday, April 29, 2012, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born November 12, 1912 in Princess Anne County, VA to the late Earnest and Daisy Armstrong. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Christopher C. Bell, Sr. and daughter, Marjorie M. Terry. Elsie, a strong advocate for her children and family, was educated in the Princess Anne County Public School System.

Survivors include one son, Dr. Christopher C. Bell, Jr. and his wife, Sadie, of Clinton, Maryland; four daughters, Olivia Hamilton of Washington, DC; Lillie M. Bell of Surry County, VA; M. Rudell Amis and her husband, Leon, of Hamilton, Bermuda; and Jessie Linyear and her husband, Richard, of Smithfield, VA. Other survivors include 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 14 great, great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Berkley with Dr. Charles Hart officiating. Burial will follow at Roosevelt Memorial Park. Viewing will be from 3- 7 pm Friday at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake. Condolences can be offered to the family at www.pretlowandsons.com .

The family sincerely thanks Cecelia Clarke, NP and Hospice of Virginia, Newport News, for their loving care and compassion during this difficult period.