Bell Fern Brackley

If you asked her how she lived to be 100 years old, Bell Fern Brackley would have told you it was because “she must be a slow learner.” But for those of us who loved her, we know she stuck around to make the world a better place. She was the most genuine and loving woman the world has ever known, and it is with incredible love and honor that her family says goodbye to her after 100 years on this earth.

Bell was born in 1924 and grew up on a farm across the street from Laura Ingalls Wilder in Mansfield, Missouri. She was the teacher of a one-room schoolhouse and also a bookkeeper for many businesses throughout her career. With her husband, Cal Brackley, she graced the Wyoming communities of Douglas, Cheyenne, Deaver, Thermopolis, and Lander, but she was proud to call Sheridan her home for the last 30 years.

Along with her two granddaughters and son, Bell leaves behind a legacy of kindness and giving. She was an officer of the Sheridan Women’s Club for many years, and when it disbanded in 2006, Bell made sure the assets of the sale of the building were used to establish a scholarship for women at Sheridan College.

Bell was an avid card player and cherished her card-playing buddies and the many friendships she made through The Hub. She will be remembered for her pinochle and bridge-playing skills, her ability to sew and cook, the smile she gave to everyone she encountered, and the way she selflessly gave of herself to the people she loved.

No funeral services are planned, as the family will be gathering privately to celebrate Bell’s life. In place of flowers, a donation can be made to The Hub on Smith, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801.

For those of us still walking this earth, Bell has one piece of advice to keep going as long as she did. “Be very careful what you put in your mouth and be very careful what comes out of your mouth.” AmenOnline condolences may be made to www.sheridanfuneral.com. Arrangements are under the care of Sheridan Funeral Home.