RAPID CITY | Jean Lee Bell, age 87, of Rapid City, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2015, at the Bella Vista Golden Living Center. Jean was born March 30, 1927, to Victor and Lavone (Zurbrigen) Chilquist in Norfolk, NE. Growing up, Jean attended one-room country schools with one teacher and 20 kids. Jean spent her youth on the family farm in Foster, NE. She learned at an early age she possessed a green thumb and loved being with the growing crops and animals. Jean graduated from Norfolk High School, and enrolled at the University of Nebraska in 1944. She graduated in 1948 with a bachelors degree in home economics and was a member of the Phi Epsilon Omicron home economics sorority. She remained through her life a dedicated Cornhusker and was honored to be a member of the "Husker Nation." Jean married James G. "Jim" Bell on July 7, 1948, at the family farm in Foster, a marriage that lasted for 67 years. This marriage was blessed with three sons, Douglas John, David James and Scott Edward. Jean dedicated her life to raising her boys and being a devoted partner to her husband. Jean loved flowers and her garden was a source of great pride. Her roses, peonies and snapdragons were famous in the neighborhood. She was an honorary life member of the Canyon Lake Methodist Church Women's Fellowship and a recognized den mother of Cub Scouts Pack 55 for over a decade. As an active member of P.E.O. Chapter AU for over 40 years, she looked forward each month to being with her sisters and supporting the betterment of the P.E.O. sisterhood. But, most importantly, Jean was a dedicated mother and wife, always working for her family. Jean is survived by her husband, Jim, Rapid City; sons Douglas of Florida, David (Peggy) of Pinedale, WY, Scott (Susan) of Canton, SD; sister, Victoria Dickinson, Royal Oak, MI; seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Services will be at 3 p.m. Monday, March 30, at First United Methodist Church in Rapid City, with Pastor Greg Kroger officiating. Visitation will be for one hour prior to services. A reception will be held immediately following services at the church. Interment will be at Prospect View Cemetery in Pierce, NE. Pallbearers will be Dave Bell, Scott Bell, Ryan Bell, Donovan Bell, Robb Hansen and Dr. Craig Hansen. The family suggests memorials to the P.E.O. Chapter AU Program for Continuing Education, 1121 St. Charles, Rapid City, SD, 57701.