WATERFORD — Ann S. Bell, 58, formerly of Farmington, died surrounded by close family in her home in Waterford. She will be remembered by those that knew and loved her for her positive attitude and, above all else, her infectious laugh.

She was a passionate educator of 30 plus years. Ann had a varied career that ranged from teaching elementary and middle school children in SAD 17, to high school vice principal for RSU 10, and principal at Telstar High. Throughout her career she touched and inspired many lives. Her passion for teaching led her to pursue her master’s degree from UNE and to become an advocate for teachers and education as an assistant superintendent for RSU 10. For Ann an important part of influencing young minds to achieve their potential also included athletics and she coached soccer, lacrosse and cross-country skiing.

In fact, cross-country skiing was a personal favorite activity of hers. She often explored near her home and enjoyed the peace and quiet of gliding through wintry woods. She had a general love of the outdoors, which began in her youth playing and working at her family’s campground, the Nor’ 40. Ann’s love of the outdoors extended to all wildlife except for spiders, which she maintained a healthy fear of her whole life. She frequently explored the wilds of Maine and beyond through hiking, biking, skiing, and beekeeping, among other things. Her devoted husband, Peter B. Bell, by whom she is survived, was her consummate partner in these expeditions, which formed the basis of their healthy and happy 36-year marriage.

Ann loved her family above all else. She raised two wonderful, successful children, Eben O. Bell and Mckayla R. Bell. She loved and accepted their spouses, Elisa Baum and Jose Mendoza, respectively, like her own children. Ann was happiest playing with and spoiling her two grandchildren, Maximus Leon Mendoza (three) and Stella Ann Mendoza (four months), the children of Mckayla and Jose. She is from a large family and loved getting together with them and all of their children for celebrations of all types, but specifically the 4th of July and Christmas Eve, where gin and tonics were her preferred libation.

She was predeceased by her mother and father, Lillian A. and Fred A. Simpson; and her two brothers, Ted and Larry Simpson. She is survived by her sisters, Jane Campbell, Peg Hamilton and Barbara Simpson; and her brothers, Jerry and Mark Simpson.

We would like to thank Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice for their attentive and compassionate service.

Private services will be held and, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that anyone who would like to make a donation go to http://www.dempseychallenge.org/, click “donate now” and search for Peter Bell. He will be riding in her memory.

Arrangements are in the care of Chandler Funeral Homes and Cremation Service 45 Main Street, South Paris.