LaDonna Chontre’ Bell was born on November 30, 1979 to Bobby and Kathy McClanahan in West Plains, Missouri. She departed this life on February 9, 2024 peacefully in her sleep at home at the age of 44.
LaDonna is preceded in death by both her maternal and paternal grandparents. LaDonna is survived by both her parents, Bobby and Kathy McClanahan of Alton, Missouri, her husband, Kenny Bell of the home, her daughter, Lauren Bell (Bailey), grandchildren and light of her life, Annsleigh and Owen Harlan, son, Gavyn Bell, bonus son, Randy Hodo, two sisters, Shandon Simmons and Brittany Hodo (Randy), nieces, Chloie McClanahan, Emma Simmons, and Kinsley Hodo, and nephew, Eli Simmons all of Alton, Missouri.
LaDonna and Kenny first met at the gas station where she worked. He had just moved from Texas and talked her into selling him a pack of cigarettes even though he was considered underage. A couple days later, they spent the evening driving around and the rest was history. LaDonna often referred to these days as “back when Kenny had hair” days. She would laugh and say he was a punk back then. They were united in marriage on November 1, 2001 at her parent’s home in Alton, Missouri. Their love for one another was undeniable and never faltered no matter what life’s circumstances were. LaDonna’s biggest hobby was collecting Temptation dishes. She always had multiple dishes for every holiday and would sometimes even share with her mom and sisters. She loved shopping, especially online or at outlet malls. If it had an easy pay option, it was in her cart and soon headed her way. She also enjoyed couponing. She often forgot to clip her coupons before going so a quick trip would easily turn into 2 to 3 hours, but she was always so excited about her deals and wanted to tell everyone about them. More than anything, LaDonna loved her family. She made that known multiple times a day by text messages, calls or drop ins. In December of 2022, LaDonna became very sick and spent several days in the hospital. There was a time where the family was preparing for the Lord to call her home, but God answered prayers by giving LaDonna another good year. In that year, LaDonna started going to church, rededicated her life and was baptized alongside her husband and son. Many people have been blessed by her testimony about the power of prayer. Her passing has left a void that can never be filled by any other, but we can find comfort in knowing that we will see her again.
Services will be 11:00 am Thursday, February 15, 2024, at the Clary Funeral Home, Alton, MO with Bro. Charles Trantham officiating. Visitation will be 10 am until service time. Burial in the Bailey Cemetery with pallbearers Randy Hodo, Bailey Harlan, Randy McClanahan, Bobby McClanahan, Bill Palmer and Nick Parrott.
