Marilyn Jo Bell

Marilyn Jo Bell, 82, of New Castle passed away Friday, March 20, 2026 at The Willows of New Castle. She was born December 7, 1943 in New Castle to Donald and Elizabeth “Betty” Ann (Lines) Wisehart.

Marilyn was a Cadiz High School graduate who began her career in administrative roles before joining Chrysler Corporation in New Castle. When layoffs occurred, she worked at several places, including Kroger, but eventually retired from Chrysler. In her later years, Marilyn and Bob ran a small gun shop together. She was admired for her sincere, compassionate personality and loved to laugh, dance, and search for treasures while thrifting. Spring was her favorite time of year—she enjoyed selecting and planting flowers for her patio, then relaxing and appreciating their beauty throughout the summer.

Family meant everything to Marilyn: Bob, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were always at the heart of her life. She relished annual family vacations to Gatlinburg, TN, skillfully organizing meals and selecting the perfect cabin for everyone. Even during her final illness, Marilyn continued to show affection with smiles and gentle gestures. Her warmth and love will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Those left to cherish Marilyn’s memory are her husband, Robert “Bob” J. Bell; children, Karla (Rod) Jester and Derek (Jennifer) Phelps; stepchildren, Curt Bell and Troy (Erin) Bell; grandchildren, Brittany (Tony) Martin, Megan (Bon) Disborough, Kara (Frank) Garza and Sophie Phelps; great-grandchildren, Maddison Disborough, Tucker Martin, Aiden Disborough, Lindy Martin, Makayla Disborough, Kaysen Disborough and Akira Garza; siblings, Janice (Richard) Margison and Carolyn (Michael) Manifold; sister-in-law, Pat Wisehart; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by her brother, Kenneth D. Wisehart.

A celebration of Marilyn’s Life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to help with her celebration of life expenses, c/o Karla Jester, 8288 East Co Rd 600 North, Losantville, IN 47354. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. You may express condolences or share a memory of Marilyn at www.hinsey-brown.com.