Janet L. Bell

1941-2026

Portland--Janet Leighton Cleaves Bell, 84, passed away April 11, 2026, at the Barron Center in Portland, Maine after a long illness, while surrounded by members of her family. Janet was born on October 8,1941 in Portland, Maine to Harold E. Leighton and Harriet S. Strattard. Janet grew up in Yarmouth, Maine and attended Yarmouth Schools graduating from Yarmouth Academy in1959.

Janet married Bruce Bell February 10, 1996.

Janet was loving, kind, compassionate and supportive of all those fortunate enough to be around her.

Janet was predeceased by her parents Harold and Harriet Leighton, first husband Charles Cleaves, 2 stepchildren Chucky Cleaves and Tony Cleaves.

She is survived by her only son Timothy Cleaves and her two granddaughters: Faith Cleaves and Cassidy Cleaves (Janet was excited to be a great grandmother to a baby girl that is due in late May). Brothers: Richard Leighton, Rodger Leighton, Edwin Leighton & Sister Jean Leighton. Second husband Bruce Bell, stepchildren Daniel Bell, James Bell, Doreen Bell, Carlene Bennett, and Mark Bell.

Janet worked at many different occupations during her lifetime which included Coastal Manor in Yarmouth, ME, IGA Yarmouth, ME, Cole Hann Yarmouth, ME, Clothing Boutique in Falmouth, ME, Sea Dogs ticket office Portland, ME.

Janet cherished her many years as an active member of the Yarmouth Rescue.

In her younger years Janet enjoyed raising racehorses and running them at the Cumberland Fair Grounds. She was also an avid lover of stock car racing. She crocheted as many blankets as her fingers would allow, giving them to loved ones and donating dozens to hospitals and those in need.

Traveling was a passion of Janets. Visiting placing like the Canadian Provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, Prince Edward Island, Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon territory, Saskatchewan, Manitoba), NASCAR races all over the east coast, Florida, country Fairs in Maine, and the trip of a lifetime driving over 80 days and 15,000 miles to Alaska. Janet liked riding with Bruce on their ATV at hunting camp in Bingham, ME.

The entire family extends our heartfelt gratitude to the Barron Center for their kindness, compassion and caring. Your support and love have had no bounds.

Per Janet’s request, there will be no funeral or visiting hours. A private grave side ceremony will be held at a later date.