Mary Belle Moss

Mary Belle Moss was born in Milwaukee, WI on January 24, 1921. She passed away on January 2, 2015 at Wesley Willows, in company of her family.
Orphaned after the death of her parents, Mary Belle was raised by her aunt and uncle. Despite the loss of her parents, she possessed an indomitable spirit, characterized by enormous generosity, unreserved love, and great humor. She was graduated from North Division High School in Milwaukee where she participated in choir and played cello in the youth symphony. She retained a love of the fine arts throughout her life, and frequently attended musical, theatrical, and operatic productions. She studied business at the Robert A. Johnston College of Business Administration at Marquette University and became a successful insurance agent in Milwaukee. After marrying Arthur R. Moss in 1957, they resided in Beloit, WI where he was president of the Moss Insurance Agency. Their home on East Ridge Road became a center for neighborhood parties, diners, and celebrations. Mary Belle was active in charitable work with the First Congregational Church of Beloit and gave her energy and time to a variety of cultural and artistic organizations in Beloit. She was a passionate bridge player, a highly respected teacher of bridge, and a dynamic leader in the Rockford Bridge Club. She was certified a Life Master by American Contract Bridge League. Mary Belle had an adventurous spirit that led her to explore the cultures and cuisines of many nations. She traveled throughout North America, and made extensive visits to Great Britain, France, Germany, the Mediterranean, Italy, Greece, Russia, and China.
Mary Belle was preceded in death by her husband Arthur, and her son Mark. She is survived by her son Arthur, her daughters-in-law Kathy Moss Carter and Linell Gray Moss, and her grandchildren, Esther, Henry, and Lucy Moss. Her family will receive friends in a visitation and brief time of sharing reflections on Monday, January 5, from 10:30-11:30 AM at Fitzgerald Funeral Home Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford.