Mrs. Bell played softball as a youngster, and her love of the game fueled her efforts to bring sports to her students.

She worked as a bookkeeper in a produce business and later ran a grocery with her husband, Norman, before starting a career in education and sports.

In the early 1970s, Mrs. Bell was hired as a substitute teacher and coach at the Cecilian Academy, a Catholic girls' school in Mount Airy. The post led to a permanent position there.

Mrs. Bell, who studied business at Temple University, taught health, physical education and economics. She coached basketball, including the undefeated 1976 team; softball; and volleyball.

In her Morrell Park neighborhood, Mrs. Bell became active with the Liberty Bell Youth Organization, a sports group. She coached girls sports, including several championship teams; umpired; and organized carnivals to raise money for the group.

Mrs. Bell also participated in semipro sports, coaching in the Del Val Gals softball league. She was honored for her work with the league, and by the Cecilian Academy and the Liberty Bell group.

She retired from coaching in 1983. After 17 years at the academy, she went to work as a bookkeeper. She retired in 1996 because of health issues.

She and her husband divorced in the early 1980s.

She is survived by a son, Howard; a daughter, Sheila Jobs; five grandchildren; and Lynn McCreary, who was a like a daughter to Mrs. Bell.

A funeral service and entombment will begin at 11 a.m. today at King David Memorial Park, 3594 Bristol Rd., Bensalem.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105.