Claire B. (Sheldon) Bell

Claire B. (Sheldon) Bell, age 99, of Pennellville, New York, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born on October 3, 1926, in Pennellville, NY, Claire was the daughter of the late Harold and Irene Sheldon. She lived a life centered on her deep love of family and music. Her passion for music lit up the Pennellville United Methodist Church and Caughdenoy United Methodist Church, where she served as church organist and pianist for well over fifty years, directing numerous church choirs and traveling singing ensembles. She was devoted to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, rarely missing an event, especially for her “little boys,” including soccer and football games, theater performances, and martial arts graduations.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband and best friend, Parker R. Bell.

She is survived by her daughters, Janice Dudden and Rita (Marty) Reed; her grandchildren, Meridith (Jon) Styer, Richard Dudden, Kelsey Brush, and Carolyn (Josh) A’Hearn; and her great-randchildren, Brandon Ostman, Ethan Reed, Elijah Dudden, and James A’Hearn. Claire is also survived by her cherished chosen family; Jack Baxter and his wife Brenda, who remained family after the passing of Claire’s dear bonus daughter Betsy. Her bonus grandchildren include Kristen (Chris) Zimmer, Jen Rogi, Eric Reed, Andy (Heather) Reed, and Jeff (Jamie) Reed; her bonus great-grandchildren include Breanna Clark, Ericka (Dylan Davis) Reed, Austin Reed, Joey Reed, Kayla Reed, and Bodhi Rogi; and her bonus great-great-granddaughter, Brinley Davis.

The family extends their deepest thanks to Hospice of Central New York and the Finger Lakes, Lynn Wise, Darlene Bell-Lindsley, Tara Prior, Bella Hillman, Peyton Callahan, Diane Appler and all the aides who provided care for Claire over the last few years.

Calling hours and funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Traub
Funeral Home, 684 North Main Street, Central Square, New York 13036.

● Calling Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
● Funeral Service: 1:00 PM
● Burial: To follow at Roosevelt Cemetery.

Flowers or as preferred by the family, living floral arrangements may be sent to the funeral home, or memorial donations in Claire's name may be made directly to Caughdenoy Faith and Family Church, 3 County Route 37,Central Square, New York 13036.

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