Obituary of Mary Martha Bell

Mary Martha (née Ferrero) Bell Born June 23, 1945, in Calgary, AB – Passed away June 24, 2025, in Eureka, NS, aged 80 years In the stillness of the woods and the rhythm of the river, Mary found rest — held in the arms of her beloved husband Billy, with her son by her side — where she had always found peace. Mary was born to John Peter Ferrero and Gertrude Ferrero (nee Pushak) in Calgary, AB. She was the oldest of 6 children and was known even in her younger years for her wild hearted spirit, radiant beauty, and beautiful soul. After the war, her father ran a pool hall, and her uncle operated a taxi service. As a young woman she learned the art of shooting pool, and enjoyed luxury limo drives around the city. She was introduced to dozens of famous people and everyone she ever encountered loved her. In her adult years, Mary traveled extensively around the USA to California, Kentucky, Nashville and more. Her son Bryan was born in Fort Campbell, KY, and her daughter Brenda in Edmonton, AB. After bringing her children into the world while on the road, Mary settled down to live a more quiet life, in Nova Scotia, surrounded by nature, music, family and friends. She was a loving mother to Bryan and Brenda, and always found joy in watching them and their children grow up. After life brought new beginnings, she met the love of her life, Billy, and the two began a journey of devotion and joy that would span for five decades. Hand in hand for fifty years, they walked a path made of shared sunsets, laughter, and simple joys. Mary brought beauty, grace, and laughter into every room, and Billy never left her side — not for a single day. Their love was the kind others only read about. Her smile would light up the room and his eyes would light up for her. Mary was known for being compassionate, wise, having excellent listening skills, and her kind soul. She was the kind of friend who made time stand still when you needed comfort. Her best friend, Colleen, will treasure their memories always. This personality was why she was so fantastic at her job at Riverview Home, where she did recreational activities with the clients for 18 years. They adored her. From arts and crafts and road trips to ZZ Top concerts — even taking them home with her for a nice afternoon — her time with them was cherished by all. Bryan even enjoyed a work term there and has fond memories working alongside his Mom. Mary was an animal lover and so enjoyed the company of her pets and feeding wildlife. She loved living naturally, devoting herself to natural foods. She had impressive yoga skills, was an avid swimmer, and prioritized health and nature overall. Over the years, much of Mary’s life centered around homegrown rock music and she loved listening to Billy play. First with Bakersteele, and then later with the Billy Bell Band. She was his biggest support and made lifelong friends with his bandmates – Joe Baker, Matt Trefry, and Robert Reid. Along her travels she met Hank Snow, Loretta Lynn, and Kenny Rogers to name a few. She always had a fascinating story to tell. Mary will be forever missed by her devoted husband Billy Bell, children Bryan (Gail) Hetherington, Brenda (Mike) Hetherington-Henshaw, grandchildren Cory (Bailey) Hetherington, Amanda (Jared) Grant-Rutledge, great-grandchildren Hunter, Layla, Silas, and Emery. She is also remembered fondly by her siblings Jim (Cristina) Ferrero, Kathy (Dave) Edwards, Christina (Armond) Marino, and Sally (James) Kosowan, In-laws Donnie (Colleen) Bell, Alan (Lisa) Bell, Karen (Fred) Sangster, nieces and nephews Stephan, Melanie, Tony, Joe, Claire, and Zach not to mention many more in-laws, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her parents John Peter and Gertie Ferrero, brother Tony Ferrero (Neressa) parents in-law Bob and Pearl Bell, and brother in-law Larry Bell. In keeping with Mary’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. “In His Arms” She asked for love, not words to say, Just one more hug to end the day. He held her close — she slipped away, Still wrapped in love that will not fray.