Vadna Oneta Colley Bell

March 19, 1927 – January 5, 2023

Vadna Oneta Colley Bell was called home by her Lord and Savior January 5, 2023, with her son, Alton Forest "Willie" Bell and her daughter, Janice Bell Bryant at her side. She was preceded in death by her husband, Alton Bell, her infant daughter, Terry Lynn Bell, her parents Vadna Mae and Travis Erbon Colley, her sister, Wynell Woods and her brother, Travis Colley. Her youngest sister, Ferol Yvonne Davis resides in Alvin, Texas. Her grandchildren are mourning the loss of their Grandma. They are James Tristan Bryant, Tammera (Tammy) Aranda, and Sherri Ekukpe. She had numerous other non-related grandchildren that she acquired over the years bringing them into her heart just as if they were her own.

She was affectionately known as Grandma by friends, the neighborhood kids, and others. She always made everyone welcome at her house insisting on setting a plate for them whether they were hungry or not. No one refused because she was a great cook especially chicken and dumplings and chili made from venison. Her happiest moments centered around having her home full to overflowing with family and friends.

She was employed by the Texas Department of Corrections for 25 years. She started her career as a guard at the Goree Unit in Huntsville. Due to her diligence and demonstrated ability, she was soon promoted to Sargent and then Lieutenant over security. When the women were moved from Goree to the units in Gatesville, she oversaw the Valley View Unit until she retired in 1985.

After retirement, she devoted her attention to her garden. She loved to plant, water, and watch the vegetables grow. She shared her bounty with family and friends but always made sure to pressure can enough each year so she could have vegetables year-round. When she wasn't working in the garden, cooking, or taking care of everyone else, she loved to read. She enjoyed reading biographies and religious literature, especially those written by John Hagee. She was active in the Pine Prairie Free Will Baptist Church for years where she was a member of the choir. Due to health issues in the last several years, was not able to be active in the church but remained a "Pray Warrior" and was always available when the call came that someone needed prayer.

What a happy homecoming she is having, seeing her Lord, and her family that has gone before her! Rejoice in her life. That is what she would want.