Doris Laverne Bell, affectionately known by family, friends, and just about everyone who knew her as “Kitty,” was born on March 4, 1958, in Anna, Illinois, to Curtis Massie and Maxine Bell.

Kitty was a woman whose presence could never go unnoticed. She had a spunky personality, a spirit all her own, and a way of bringing life to every room she entered. She was the life of the party, a tough cookie who stood her ground, and someone who knew how to make people laugh. Kitty didn't have to try to be memorable; it simply came naturally to her.

For 23 years, Doris dedicated herself to Southern Illinois University Head Start in Carbondale, Illinois, where she worked as a cook before retiring in 2023. But her contribution to the community went far beyond her years of employment. Through her work in the Head Start kitchen, generations of children grew up with a little piece of Kitty's love and care. She wasn't just preparing meals; she was helping nourish a community.

Her home and her kitchen were places where people knew they could stop by. Whether someone needed a conversation, wanted to reminisce, needed a good meal, or simply wanted to enjoy themselves, Kitty made room. She was the kind of woman who would cook up something delicious, tell you to come get a plate, and then send you on your way with a full stomach and probably a few words to go with it!

Kitty enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, especially old-school music, classic Westerns, and crime dramas on television. She loved a good time, good company, and the familiar faces of the people who made up her world.

Above all, Doris was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a cherished part of her family and community. She expressed her love through the meals she prepared, the conversations she shared, the laughter she brought, and the open door that welcomed so many.

On November 1, 2026, Kitty's earthly journey came to a close in the comfort of her home. Though her chair may sit empty and her kitchen grow quiet, the love she poured into others will live on through generations of family, friends, and community members whose lives she touched.

The music may have stopped, but the memories will keep playing. The kitchen may grow quiet, but her love will always have a seat at the table.

She was one of a kind. She was our Kitty. And there will never be another quite like her.

She leaves to cherish her memory her four children, ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, seven maternal siblings, four paternal siblings, along with extended family, dear friends, former coworkers, and the countless members of her community whose lives she touched.

Ministry of Comfort was Lovingly Entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.