Claudia Marie Byars Bell, age 73, of Cornelia, Georgia, took her heavenly flight home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
Born in Clinton, South Carolina on March 21, 1952, Claudia was the beloved daughter of the late James R. Byars, Sr. and the late Margaret Eugenia Barker Stankewich. She was also lovingly shaped by her aunt and uncle, Louise and Wendy Hall, who helped raise her. A proud graduate of Baker High School’s Class of 1970, Claudia went on to build a meaningful career first as a phlebotomist and later as a medical technician. Her care for others—so central to who she was—shone through every step of her work.
On January 10, 1972, Claudia married the love of her life, Roy E. Bell. Together they shared 53 ½ wonderful years, a marriage grounded in unwavering devotion, mutual respect, and a love that radiated into every part of their lives.
Claudia had a heart that overflowed with generosity and compassion. She freely offered her time, support, and love to family, friends, and anyone blessed enough to cross her path. She had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and deeply loved. Claudia also poured her care into rehabilitating animals, nurturing the vulnerable creatures who found their way to her gentle hands.
More than anything, Claudia treasured her roles as a devoted wife, beloved mom, and cherished “Oma.” Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she delighted in every moment spent with them. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and boundless love will forever echo through the generations she leaves behind.
In addition to her parents, Claudia was preceded in death by her aunt and uncle, Louise and Wendy Hall; her step-father, Robert Stankewich; and her niece, Carissa Byars.
She is survived by her loving husband, Roy E. Bell; daughters and sons-in-law, Selina Yearty (Skip), Kayla Frederick (Josh), and Kristi Howard (Todd); brothers and sisters-in-law, James R. Byars, Jr. (Nadine) and Levis Joe Byars (Dorothy); grandchildren, Trent Atha (Peyton), Fallon Yearty, Madison Frederick, and Braxton Frederick; great-grandchildren, Eviana, Alaya, Liam, Easton, and Tatum Atha; nephews, Justin Byars and Aidan Byars; and many other beloved relatives and special friends who will hold her memory close.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Cornelia, with Pastor Mike Franklin and Dr. Nathan LaShoto officiating. Interment will follow in Habersham Cemetery.
Claudia lived a life filled with grace, generosity, and deep devotion to her family. Her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her love, spirit, and faith will continue to light the way for all who knew her. May she rest in the everlasting peace of her heavenly home.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., and again at the church on Wednesday, from 1:00 p.m. until the service hour.
Flowers are welcome. Those wishing to honor Claudia’s memory may also make donations to ALS United of Georgia by visiting alsgeorgia.org.
An online guest registry is available for the Bell family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.
McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.
