Loved ones gather on Thanksgiving to honor an Army veteran who died by suicide

CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Loved ones of a beloved Army veteran who died by suicide are continuing a tradition of gathering on Thanksgiving to remember his legacy.

Sean Bell died by suicide in 2021 at the age of 38. He served in the Army for 20 years, rising to the rank of sergeant major and earning numerous decorations, including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star. His family says he was close to retiring when he took his own life.

Watch previous coverage: Grieving mother stresses the importance of veteran suicide awareness

Region 5 Coast Veteran Suicide Prevention Summers Live

On Thursday, Gold Star mothers and loved ones joined the Bell family for the annual dinner at the Chesapeake Police Building. Sean’s mother, Angela Bell, said the event highlighted the importance of family coming together and the value of Sean’s life and military service.

Jeff Ringrose/WTKR

Angela Bell says she is always amazed by the outpouring of support and community during Thanksgiving. She hopes to raise awareness about suicide prevention and says more information can be found Here.