Obituary of Anthony "Tony" Bernard Bell

     Anthony "Tony" Bernard Bell, 65, of Utica, NY, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing at Utica. 

    Born in Clayton, Alabama on September 18, 1958, to the late Robert Louis Dorsey and Bernice J. Bell, Anthony relocated to Utica at a very early age. He was raised and educated in Utica, attending Miller and Roosevelt Elementary Schools, and graduating from Utica Free Academy. While at U.F.A., he was on the track and field team, excelling in the high jump. Upon graduation, he proudly served his country, enlisting in the US Army in 1977 and was honorably discharged in 1981.

    Over the years, Anthony was employed with the following companies: Stetson Dale, Par Technologies, Utica Corporation, and lastly with New York State Canal Systems.

   Anthony was an individual who more or less, kept to himself. He did enjoy being around close family and friends. He had a passion for music, whereas he played both guitar and bass in the bands he was actively involved in. He would sit outside on the porch for hours playing his guitar. He also studied and practiced martial arts, which he was very good at. Lastly, Anthony was an amazing artist. He had the God-given ability to draw anything from portraits, murals, cartoon characters, etc. He would draw individuals and objects on sight. 

    Anthony leaves behind siblings, Delmarshia Curry of Utica, NY, Robert (Marilyn) Bell of Freeport, NY, and Mark Johnson of York, PA; an aunt, Lena Bell, of Utica, NY; nieces, Pamela Pulliam and Jenique Bell; nephews, Simeon Bell, Brandon Bell (Bridgette), Ricky Curry (Regina), Channing Curry, Marques Curry, and Desmond Curry. Special cousins, James (Sonny) Bell, Kenneth Bowens, and Maurice Bell; very special first cousin, Edward Bell, who was more like a brother to him; as well as a host of cousins and friends.

    Besides his parents, Anthony was predeceased by his oldest brother, Arthur James Bell, special aunt, Annie R. Bell, who was like a second mother to him, nephew, Quentin Jamel Curry, and special first cousin, William "Butchy" Bell. 

   The family would like to thank the staff of the Grand for caring and taking care of Anthony over the years, especially CNAs Shray Anderson (cousin), Valentine Spells,Travina LaPlante-Woods and Angela Gonzalez who took special care and attention to Anthony and his wellbeing. 

   Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024, from 11am - 12 noon at Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica, NY 13502. Anthony's Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence immediately at 12 noon upon the conclusion of the visitation.