Obituary of Francena Bell

Frankie Bell After a long illness, Francena Bell went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 16, 2021, in Lakewood, New Jersey. Frankie was born September 14, 1944 in Newark, New Jersey during the Great Atlantic Hurricane. She was the daughter of the late Mary Frances Haynes and the late Joseph Haynes Sr. She was the eldest of four siblings: Laverne, Joseph Jr., and Mary. Frankie graduated from Essex County Vocational High School where she majored in dressmaking. She went on to earn an Associates Degree in social work from Brookdale Community College. During her young adult life, Frankie resided in Newark and worked as a talented fashion designer and seamstress. In 1963, Frankie welcomed her beloved daughter Joann Haynes into the world. She met John H. Bell Jr. whom she eventually married. The family resided in Middlesex County for a number of years eventually settling in Monmouth County. Frankie purchased a house in Freehold Borough where she resided until her passing. While living in Monmouth County, Frankie worked as an administrative assistant for a number of years. She was also an active community member and was active in the Democratic Party. Frankie also thrived as a substitute teacher for Freehold Borough School District. Finally, during the last part of her administrative career, Frankie worked for the Township of Millstone. Besides being multi-talented, Frankie had many interests. She especially loved spending time with her daughter and grandson Corey. Frankie had a passion for music and performed as a jazz and blues singer. Frankie Bell, Princess of the Blues, performed all over New Jersey. Frankie was preceded in death by her parents Mrs. Mary Frances Haynes and Mr. Joseph Haynes Sr., her siblings Joseph Haynes Jr. and Laverne Messito. She is survived by her daughter Joann Bell Braye and son-in-law Lorenzo Braye of Freehold, NJ. She is also survived by her beloved grandson Corey Easterling, and sister Mary Cooper. Frankie leaves to cherish her memory an aunt, a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, and many friends. Memorial donations to The Stroke Foundation or the Brian Aneurism Foundation would be appreciated.