East Freetown; Claude “Puddin” Bell, a resident of E. Freetown and also a former resident of Taunton for many years, died suddenly on Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at his home in E. Freetown . He was 61 years of age.
He was the husband of Marcia (Douglas) Bell. Claude was born in Philadelphia, Penn. on January 29, 1947, son of the late Robert and Gladys (Ryons) Bell. At the time of his death, Claude was employed at Active Daycare in Fairhaven as a Van driver for Senior Citizens.
Mr. Bell was a talented musician who began playing at age 15 and was one of the founding members of “Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes” and was with the band for over 25 years. He played Bass Guitar with the band, which, by the way, was one of the top Rock N’ Roll bands of the 70’s .
Mr. Bell , and the “Blue Notes” also had many best selling hits. Two of their biggest hits were “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” and “Wake Up, Everybody”. Mr. Bell was also involved with one of the top Rock N’ Roll Bands in the country, called “TAVARES”, out of New Bedford, Ma. One of their top hits is “It Only Takes A Minute Girl”.
In addition to his wife, he leaves 2 sons; Charlton Bell of N. Carolina and Tobey Bell of E. Freetown. He also leaves 1 sister, Barbara Moses and a brother-in-law, Leroy Moses of Philadelphia. He also leaves 3 grandchildren; Chauncey,Giovanni,and Elizabeth; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services for Mr. Bell will be held on Monday at 1:00 PM. at the Taunton Funeral Home, 8 Crapo Street, off Tremont Street
Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be on Monday from 11:00 am. to 1:00 pm. Cremation will follow the service.
Please sign our guestbook.
Donations in Claude's name can be made to The Heifer Project, 1 World Ave. Little Rock, Arkansas, 72202.