Obituary of Jacqueline Carole Bell

Jacqueline Carole Bell (nee Medland)
July 30, 1959 – July 9, 2025

Jacqueline passed away peacefully at home in Markham on July 9 th 2025 surrounded by the love of her family. Jacqeline was the beloved wife of John Bell, and mother to Robert (Malisa) and Justin. She was the big sister of Ian and Kate, and was known as “Nana” by her grandchildren Matthew and Liam, and “Auntie Jacquie” by many including Earyn, Evan, Ryan, Jenna, Shamith and Nisheka and Tilia.

Born in 1959 to loving parents Grace and Bruce Medland, Jacqueline lived nearly all of her life in Markham. After graduating from Markham District High School she attended Centennial College studying to become a Developmental Service Worker. She met the love of her life, John in 1978 while attending an Occupational Therapy program. After dating for 7 years they wed on June 1 st 1985 at Grace Anglican Church.

Jacqueline and John became parents in 1987 when they welcomed their first born into the world shortly followed by their second son in 1990. Jacqueline embraced motherhood whole heartedly, and was an absolutely amazing mother; patient, loving, and deeply involved in the lives of her children. Their young family moved from Scarborough to Markham in 1992, purchasing a house that had fortuitously been built on the exact same plot of land as her grandparents farm on McCowan Road. In 2018 Jacqueline and John joyfully embraced their new roles and grandparents.

Her generosity and caring extended far beyond her family, as Jacqueline dedicated much of her life to volunteering and serving those in need throughout her community. For over 15 years Jacqueline volunteered in the Palliative and Complex Continuing Care ward of Markham Stouffville Hospital. She was also a committed member of the Dystonia community, including raising money for the Dystonia Medical Research foundation, and acting as a mentor and support to other individuals diagnosed with Dystonia. In 2023 she proudly joined the Markham Lions Cub, following in the footsteps of her parents and joining her husband in service. She passionately lived the identity of being a helper, at home and around her community.

Jacqueline had a deep connection to faith and was an active member of Grace Anglican Church for her whole life. She remained an active member of the choir from age 13 until shortly before her death, often taking on challenging solos with her beautiful soprano voice.

Having endured so much hardship herself, Jacqueline had a profound understanding of the importance of support and kindness. She was always offering help to those around her, including those she barely knew. Her kindness and courage will be remembered by many as making a massive impact on the lives of those around her. During her final months she had the opportunity to celebrate her 40 th wedding anniversary with John at a large gathering, truly demonstrating how many lives she had touched throughout the years.

Jacqueline passed away peacefully on the exact date that would have been her Mother’s 90 th Birthday – surely so she could celebrate along with her up in Heaven.

A visitation will be held on Saturday July 12 th from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at Dixon Garland Funeral Home in Markham followed by a celebration of Jacqueline’s life and contributions on Sunday July 13 th at 2pm at Grace Anglican Church in Markham.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to the Lion’s Club Dog Guide program at www.dogguides.com, or the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation at www.dystoniacanada.org

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Personal Support Workers, Nurses and Physicians who cared for her. Throughout her life she connected with innumerable health care providers who went above and beyond to provide exceptional service to her.