Tributes

Shelton Earl Bell, born September 17, 1955, in Martin County to Royce Bell and Evelyn Bell-Salisbury, peacefully departed this life on May 10, 2026 surrounded by the love and memories of his wife, children, family and friends. Though originally from North Carolina, Shelton spent over 40 years living in California, where he built a life rooted in hard work, faith, family, and community. Shelton earned his GED through Job Corps and went on to dedicate more than 27 years of his life to truck driving. Known for his strong work ethic and determination, he later became the proud owner of E&J Seafood Express Restaurant, serving his community from 2012 until the present. Through his business, Shelton touched countless lives and remained deeply involved in the community by sponsoring various high school sports teams and supporting local youth. Shelton loved watching basketball and football, attending church, and spending time with the people he loved most. He was known for his laughter, fun-loving personality, and ability to bring joy into every room he entered. His warm smile, generous heart, and caring spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Shelton Bell was a devoted husband who deeply adored his family and friends. He treasured the relationships he built throughout his life and was a constant source of strength, laughter, and unwavering support to his family and everyone fortunate enough to know him. His kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit touched countless lives, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved and cherished him. Shelton was preceded in death by his son, Marquise Albright; daughter, Tarnisha McNeil; mother, Evelyn Bell Salsbury; father, Royce Bell; brothers, Royce Whitfield, Julius Whitfield, William Whitfield, Kevin Peterson, and Gary Best; sisters, Annie Whitfield-Land and Carolyn Peterson. Shelton is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Ross-Bell of Los Angeles, California; sons, Darveon Marshall of Robersonville, NC, Eric Marshall (Danielle Ortiz) of Bridgeport, CT; stepson, Kareem Wright of Hartford, CT; daughters, DeShonda Hanley (Leon) of Bridgeport, CT; and stepdaughter, Kiamesha Albright of New Haven, CT and goddaughter, Corjamilia Clark Baltimore, CT; his stepmother, Lois Whitfield; his siblings, Tony Whitfield (Andrea), Wyatt Whitfield (Laura), William Whitfield, Edna Grey Whitfield, Eunice Rush, Robert Whitfield, Tarzan Peterson, LouAnn Waddell, Tiesia Williams, Miecia Whitfield, Pearl Whitfield, Bobbie Cuffie, and Tanquia Whitfield; in addition to his immediate family, Shelton leaves behind 13 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren, and a host of loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Shelton’s life was a reflection of love, perseverance, faith, and dedication to family and community. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of kindness, laughter, and generosity will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

Tributes

Mr. Shelton Earl Bell

September 17, 1955 - May 10, 2026