Melissa Miriam Bell

Melissa Miriam Bell, age 59, of Beckley, WV passed away at Bowers Hospice House in Beckley, WV on Monday, July 13, 2026 after a one year illness.

Born on July 12, 1967 in Detroit, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late Karl Eugene Sparks and Margaret Jean Hurlin Sparks.

Melissa, as she was known by family and friends was a Customer Service Representative for the WV Parkways Authority.

She was very active in dog rescue for two decades, and loved spending time with her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded by her aunt Miriam Hurlin.

Those survivors left to cherish her memory include her loving companion of 21 years, Steve Elwell of Toledo, Ohio, children, Joe Wells and wife Mariza, Derek Bell, Jeremy Bell, Heather Genereaux and Corey, and Megan Clay husband Adrian, and Kloe Rose. Stepchildren, Heather Elwell and fiance Josh Wells, Steven Elwell and wife Sarah, and Alex Elwell. Thirteen grandchildren; two sisters, Kimberly LaCross, and Deborah Sparks.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Wauseon, Ohio. 

Private online condolences and other expressions of sympathy may be directed to the family via our guestbook at www.roseandquesenberry.net. 

Arrangements are by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, 1901 South Kanawha Street, Beckley, WV.