Life Reflections

In Memory of Tonya Marie Bell

Tonya Marie Bell passed away on March 12, 2026, at the age of 56, surrounded by her loving family while in hospice care. She courageously lived with heart disease from the young age of five.

Tonya was born on July 4, 1969, to Claude Bell Sr. and Eunice (Nelson) Bell. She was the oldest of two children and grew up in Joliet, Illinois.

Tonya began her education at Forest Park Elementary School before being bused from "the hill" to the west side of Joliet. She continued her education at Taft Elementary School, Hufford Junior High School, and later graduated from Joliet Central High School. She developed a passion for helping others and pursued a career in health care, earning her CNA certification. She continued working in the medical field and dedicated 25 years as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), a career that also inspired and allowed her to work alongside family members in the field.

Throughout her life, Tonya worked at several places, including Certified Warehouse Foods of Joliet, Sunny Hill Nursing Home, Walmart, Empress Casino, River Valley Juvenile Center, Stateville Correctional Center, and the State of Illinois BOI. Tonya was known for her strong work ethic and caring spirit.

In her spare time, Tonya enjoyed baking, crafting, donating to others in need, and most importantly, spending time with her family and friends.

Tonya was preceded in death by her father, Claude Bell Sr., her great-niece, and her beloved grandparents.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving son, Perry (Breanna) Adams; her brothers, Claude (Jeff) Bell Jr. (Maluhia) and Courtney Bell of Arizona; her sister, Tamika (Mike) Givens; and her loving mother, Carolyn Perry. She was also a proud grandmother to Kelin Sharp-Mays Jr., Ki'Yan Adams, Payton Adams, and Brennon Adams.

Special thanks are extended to a lifesaving friend, Cedric Foster, for his kindness and support. A heartfelt thank you is also given to my mother, Eunice (Larry), for welcoming me during my early days and stepping up with love and guidance. I will always love you, Ma.

Tonya also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, uncles, and dear friends who will continue to cherish her memory.

Arrangements entrusted to:

Farkas Funeral Home

3201 W. Jefferson St.

Joliet, IL 60431

Final resting place:

Friday 3/20/26 @ Noon

Mt. Vernon Memorial Estates

11875 Archer Ave.

Lemont, IL 60439

Memorial/Repast:

Saturday 3/21/26 from Noon-3pm

IC Gallery

1220 Richards St Ste G

Joliet, IL 60432