Mary Jane Bell, 97, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2015. She was born February 21, 1918, in Ottawa, Kansas to Wallace Edwin Elliott and Leola (Dixon) Elliott. She is survived by her children, Brian E. Bell, and Janey Bell, and two grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, David V. Bell. Jane was a Registered Nurse and worked as a staff nurse at the University of Kansas Medical Center before joining the Army Nurse Corps and the 77th Evacuation Hospital in June 1942. She was oversees with the 77th for 37 months, serving in Africa, England, Sicily, France, Belgium and Germany. After returning to the States, she stayed in the Army Reserve and served with the 325th General Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. She also returned to the University of Kansas Medical Center and continued her career as a nurse until her retirement.
Mary Jane was a tremendous sports fan, avidly following her local teams and watching everything from professional tennis to car racing. She also was an animal lover and had many beloved pets throughout her life. In her later years, she enjoyed feeding the many birds that frequented her back yard.
Mary Jane was a powerful in the lives of many. She lived a long and full life and she will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Wayside Waifs, or your local shelter.