Chesapeake- On April 21, 2026, our beloved Marilyn Bell Hanberry peacefully slipped into eternal rest.

Marilyn was born on November 24, 1954, in Norfolk, Virginia, to Catherine C. Smith and Lebron Jefferson. At an early age, she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized at Money Point Baptist Church. She later became a devoted member of New Galilee Missionary Baptist Church. No matter the situation, Marilyn trusted God and believed He would always bring her through.

Marilyn was educated in the Norfolk County School System and earned her GED from South Eastern Training School. Throughout her life, she held several jobs, but she found her true passion working as a custodian in the Chesapeake Public School System.

Marilyn loved spending time with her family. Any opportunity for a family gathering, she was present. She was a pillar in her community, always willing to help others. Even during difficult times, she continued to offer a hot meal and a place to rest. Those who knew her understood that her door was always open.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her mother and father; two children, Latoya and Lil Stanley; and two brothers, Michael J. Bell and Barry Q. Smith.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Marvin Hanberry; four children, Terrinus L. Bell, Catrina A. Bell, Krystle B. Bell, and Tashara N. Bell; two brothers, Jarvis C. Bell and Gregory L. Bell (Jeanette); eight grandchildren, Aysha C. Bell, Adresha C. Hill, R’jon T. Morrow, Journee A. Mixson, Khmarii L. Hill, Khiyree T. Hill, Cayden D. Bell, Khassidi V. Rone; and five great-grandchildren, Amiyah N. Cuffee, Paislee R. Morrow, R’jon T. Morrow Jr., Kharys A. Hill, and Amiri A. Mullen.

She also leaves a host of family and friends, including a lifelong friend, Novella Cuffee. Marilyn shared a very special bond with her cousins, Justine Kimble, Vangeline Smith and Willie Harris.

The family would like to thank everyone for every kind word, gesture, prayer, card, and visit during our time of bereavement. Your love and support have not gone unnoticed and are greatly appreciated. - The Bell Family

A funeral service be held 11:00am Friday; May 1, 2026 at Bethany Baptist Church; Chesapeake. Viewing will be 4-6pm Thursday at the funeral home and 1 hour prior to service at the church.   Please continue to pray for the family.