Cecilia A. Bartell
A private celebration of her life will be held in 2025.
The family of Cecilia A. Bartell, 77, of Ferndale, WA, is deeply saddened to announce her death on December 4, 2024, at Alderwood Park Health and Rehabilitation in Bellingham, WA, where she received compassionate care from the Alderwood Park medical team and Whatcom Hospice.
Cecilia was born in Sabine, WV on March 31, 1947 to Lena Marie Bartell and Veto J. Bartell. As a child she loved writing and acting in plays. The family later moved to Lynchburg, VA where she graduated from Brookville High School in 1965. Cecilia later studied Psychology and Sociology at Mary Baldwin University.
Music was paramount in Cecilia’s life. She was moved by gritty and emotive blues artists and soulfully sang in tune alongside them. Her home was often festively filled with the sounds of a myriad of musical genres.
Cecilia had a fervent drive to help others. Prior to her retirement she worked as a counselor at the YWCA Domestic Violence and Prevention Center. Her work there empowered countless women to harness their existing power to get back behind the steering wheels of their lives.
Her giving spirit resonated in her relationships. She was an avid reader and researcher and was compelled to improve the lives of others through education and coaching. She volunteered as a counselor with Crisis Line of Central Virginia to provide kindness and guidance to individuals during some of their most vulnerable moments. She loved deeply and was deeply loved back. She left a beautiful mark on this world that will continue to shine on within the lives of people she’s touched.
She is survived by her daughter E. Michele England (Courtney Jones) of Ferndale, WA, sister Angelina Wolf (Michael Wolf) of Sinking Spring, PA and brother Vito John Bartell (Lee Ann Sieveking) of Forest, VA.
Memories
From Linda Ellis-Williams
Cecilia was one of the most compassionate people I have ever met. Her work at the Domestic Violence Prevention Center allowed her to engage, motivate, and empower hundreds of survivors throughout her time with the YWCA. It was an honor to work along side her for so many years. She was a dear friend who I felt blessed to know.
Praying for you all. 💕💕
From Jeanne Mahoney
I was blessed to have been touched by Cecilia’s expansive gentleness for a brief blip in time recently when we shared a hospital room shortly before her spirit left her body. That hospital room light up and glowed with her warmth as soon as she entered. We talked of soulful things, sang, and recognized something “familiar” in each other. I was and am and will always be touched by Cecilia’s brief yet everlasting friendship. These moment are real for all of us. Be open to as many angels that cross your path as you may. Thank you, Cecilia. You reminded me of what grace shines like.🌻
From Terri Stafford
Cecilia was a blessed cousin whom was loved so much by her family. I can always remember her patience and humor and that quiet laugh and beautiful smile. She embodied patience and love for everyone and taught me to look for the good in people by her actions.
From Auntie Theresa
Cecilia was a very dear niece to me and I loved her with all my heart. Enjoyed those weekends we spent together in Lynchburg and then when she moved those long conversations we would have. Will miss her so much, but memories are something we will never forget and can hold on to. Prayers for all her family whom she loved so dearly. ❤️
From Kathryn Drury
Cele and I were great friends for over 55 years. I remember our fun trip to Virginia Beach where we set on the hotel balcony looking at the ocean and drinking margaritas. Even when she left Virginia, we kept in touch including my visit to Amarillo, TX. I will miss her so very much.
From Jan Neal
I loved getting to know Cecelia in Amarillo. I’ll always remember her mischievous grin when we decided to go day drinking on the patio at Hummers. I was honored to experience her gracious hostessing when she invited me for lunch at her home. What a pleasure it was to know Cecilia!
From Sharon Albert
Where do I begin. I met Cecilia 40 years ago at Crisis Line where we were both volunteers. We immediately connected, and what began was a friendship that I will forever cherish. I have so many memories of times spent together; whether engaging in one of our marathon discussions or embarking on one of many adventures. One of the first things I noticed about Cecilia was her compassion and giving personality. She was a fierce advocate for the underdog and unwavering in her passion to make the world a better place. She was well read and always seeking to learn more. Oh, she was stubborn, but,willing to compromise ( some of the time. ) It's simply impossible to articulate the things we shared in this small space. I will be forever grateful that our paths crossed. Our friendship made me a better person. Cecilia, you are loved and will not be forgotten!! Fly high, free spirit. Arrivederci,, BFF Sharon Prayers and love Michele, Angel and Vito.
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