It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Marilyn Bell, age 83, who departed this world on Monday, June 22, 2026, at home, surrounded by her devoted children.
Marilyn’s life was a testament to love, family, and community. Predeceased by her parents, Bernard and Goldie (Flint) Bograd, her sister Barbara Bograd, and her beloved husband, Nathan Bell, Marilyn built a life full of love, friendship, volunteerism, activism, and, most of all, family.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Marilyn moved to the greater Binghamton area and raised her three children, David Bell, Gary Bell, and Rachel (Bell) Fineman. She worked in the advertising department of the Press & Sun Bulletin, where she was known for her remarkable spirit and dedication. After retiring from the newspaper, Marilyn dedicated herself to giving to the community. She ran the gift wrap campaign for Hadassah, volunteered at Chabad, and sat on the executive boards of both Beth David Synagogue and Jewish Federation of Greater Binghamton, just to name a few of her accomplishments.
Marilyn was more than a pillar of the local Jewish community. She had a knack for making friends, she loved to laugh, and she had a zest for life. Her greatest joy came in the form of her children and grandchildren, whom she adored. Marilyn is survived by her devoted children: David Bell, Gary Bell, and Rachel and Michael Fineman; her beloved sisters, Joyce Bograd and Suzanne Gilstein; and her treasured grandchildren: Samira (and Erica), Alex, Nosson, Reuven, Gabe, Shaya, and Yonah.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made in Marilyn’s memory to Beth David Synagogue, 39 Riverside Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905, as an expression of her enduring spirit within the community she cherished.
Marilyn F. Bell will be dearly missed and forever remembered for her warmth, wisdom, humor, and love. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her
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