Lavona Bell

February 16, 1937 - September 24, 2025

Obituary

Lavona Irene Bell, affectionately known as "Vonnie," passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, in Billings, Montana, at the age of 88.

Vonnie was born on February 16, 1937, in Hoquiam, Washington, to Ross Ivan Lanphear and Grace Etta (McClure) Lanphear. She was raised in a loving family with a strong sense of community and faith, values that she carried throughout her life.

Vonnie had a deep love for her church and devoted countless hours to church-related community service. One of her greatest passions was helping others through her involvement with the local food bank, where her warmth and compassion touched many lives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Hank Lanphear, and her sister Shirley Hoffman.

Vonnie is survived by her children: Paul Richard Regudon, Lisa Lynn Tyrell and Kristina Ranee Barrett. She also leaves behind her dear sister Donna Mathiason, three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren who brought immense joy and pride to her life.

A Memorial service for Vonnie will be held on Sunday October 5, 2025 at 4:30 pm at the Open Bible Christian Church with an interment to follow at the Park City Cemetery in Park City, MT.

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Shevannah Manning

Friend • 27 days ago

I met Vonnie in Arizona around 2012 or so. We lived in the same apartment complex for a while and went to the same church. Vonnie and I kept in touch all these years, exchanging Christmas cards, photos and catching up on life several times over the phone each year. I didn't receive a Christmas card from her this year and she didn't call back after I called. This is when I knew that she had passed. I miss here very much. She was a dear friend, a light that shined bright. She was kind, loving, thoughtful and sweet. I look forward to seeing her again in heaven one day. I will be praying for all of you. Many blessings. -Shevannah

Tami Steinbrink Kelling

Friend • 4 months ago

Hello Lisa! Your mom was always so willing to help and give us rides home as children. She was fun and full of spunk. I'm so sorry for your loss and prayers to you and your family. Tami Steinbrink Kelling

Terry McCarthy

Friend • 4 months ago

Richard, Lisa, Christina I am so sorry for your loss. You are all grown with kids and grandkids but I still see you as kids, part of the neighborhood. I do have fond memories of you and your mom and dad. Bonnie is at peace in the arms of Jesus and I pray God’s peace for you and your families. Hid’s blessings to all. Terry McCarthy

TAmmy Zubick-Munguia

Coworker • 4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Vonnie at the Billings West Goodwill store. Vonnie came to us through the SCSEP program but it didn't take her long to become one of our family, and by the time she left us almost the entire team referred to her as Grandma. . Every day she brought a bag of peppermints to hand out. We are so grateful that we were able to get to know Vonnie and share at least a small part of her life. A light has gone out in the world, but heaven is a little brighter