Bette Bell

Bette Jean Bell, 93, of Cape Girardeau died Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, at her home at Chateau Girardeau.

She was born March 27, 1923, in Berkeley, California, to John Joseph and Isabella Robina Spalding Alveras.

Bette toured the country as a singer with big bands. One of her stops was the former Purple Crackle in East Cape Girardeau, Illinois. She also sang regularly at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee. In addition, she had a radio show and cut a number of albums. She started out with Doris Day and worked with and knew many celebrities.

She has lived in Cape Girardeau for 11 years, having moved here from Hawaii.

She was a member of the Red Hat Society.

Survivors include a daughter, Bette E. (Matt) Siemers of Cape Girardeau; four grandchildren, Sally Downing, Melissa Barnhart, Sam Siemers and Heather Wingo; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Lynn.

Services will be private for the family only.

Memorial contributions may be given to Chateau Employee Fund.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.