Lisa Bell’s journey to becoming the first female justice court judge in the northern district of Sunflower County began 49 years ago.
The daughter of Charlie C. and Ora Groves, Bell was born in Mound Bayou and raised in the small Delta town of Doddsville.
She has learned to appreciate her family, neighbors and community.
Bell's parents endured many hardships as they raised four children.
Bell said that she was pushed toward success by her father.
“Everyone in the neighborhood knew my dad,” shared Bell. “He was an electrician, farmer and primary provider who pushed me never to quit. My father was always a hard worker.
Her father had been stricken with polio, but he did not allow the disease to deter him.
“My dad did not allow his illness to stop him from working, driving tractors, teaching his children how to fish, raising gardens and surviving,” explained Bell. “He taught us to be independent girls. He did whatever he could to ensure our family was cared for. He made sure that we had what we needed,” she added.
Bell’s mother was a hard worker as well, making sure that the family was taken care of on the home front.
“My dad wanted our mom to stay home and care for us, and she loved that. Every day we awoke, we saw our mom. She cooked and cleaned. She is my role model. Seeing her example of love and kindness made me the person I am,” shared Bell.
Bell said that love and strength was passed on to her.
“I must take care of my mom. She showed us love. She was and still is a strong person. I can remember visiting neighbors as a child with my mom. She always helped others in the community, and she still does that now,” explained Bell. “Her struggles have made me strong. She taught me how to be a lady and mother by caring for her family, using what she has, and respecting others. You would have to meet her. She taught us honesty and truthfulness.”
Bell said she came from humble beginnings, but she brought so many of the lessons learned in her youth to her professional life.
“Although our family didn't have much, my parents taught us the value of hard work, endurance, strength and integrity,” recalled Bell.
Despite her parents not finishing high school, they inspired her to finish.
“My mom and dad told us they stopped in elementary school in the eighth and ninth grades. My mom's parents were sharecroppers, so they missed a lot of school. After missing so many days, she could not keep up. When she went back to school, she did remember the lessons. My parents wanted to see us finish high school and do things that they could not do. They wanted us to live better lives,” shared Bell.
“I graduated from Ruleville Central High School. My parents were overjoyed. They felt like they did their job,” smiled Bell.
Relying on her faith propelled Bell to reach beyond her limitations, struggles and experiences. Bell recalls attending Mississippi Delta Community College with her older sisters.
“I went on to complete my associate (Mississippi Delta Community College), graduate's (Delta State University), and MBA (Mississippi Valley State University), and I am currently finishing up my Ph.D. (Jackson State University),” shared Bell.
Bell said that the faith she was taught at a young age helped her through some of the most difficult moments in her life.
“Of course, everyone suffers loss. The loss of my father and brother hit me the hardest,” she added. “My father and brother had prostate cancer. I saw them waste away. Cancer affects not only its victims but also their caregivers. I watched my mom take care of my dad. It was hard. I got through the difficult times through a lot of prayer. My faith comes from above. This experience made me an advocate for those going through the same thing. The struggle brought us closer together. I learned to depend on God and family daily.”
Bell said that she felt a compelling urgency early on to do more for her community.
“People often ask me why I ran for justice court judge, and I tell them it was God's calling,” said Bell. “During my campaign, I visited many homes to share and listen. Today, I say, ‘Thank you. I remain humble that you have placed your trust in me. I strive to make a difference each day because of you.’”
Bell is currently thriving in her second term on the bench.
“Being a justice court judge is one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done, besides being a wife and a mom. As a justice court judge in Sunflower County, my neighborhood has expanded to Rome, Parchman, Drew, Ruleville, Linn, Blaine, Sunflower and Indianola. I have made some wonderful friends and great memories. I take my position personally. I strive to do my best for the people; this is a great responsibility. I do not take any decision lightly or carelessly. You are my neighbor, so I ensure fairness in every decision, which is what I promised to do, and I keep my promises,” explained Bell. “My goal is to continue educating students and to serve as a long-term judge,” she declared.
Bell said that besides her parents, others have helped to shape her into the person and professional that she is today.
“I have learned something valuable from every person I have encountered. If I had to name one person who has been my mentor, it would be Sheriff James Haywood. I know I can call him and get support despite the situation. The one word of encouragement he has always given me: Do your job, you will lose and gain friends, don't worry,” shared Bell.
When she is not presiding over the courtroom, Bell can often be found helping her community, particularly in Doddsville.
“Doddsville is a special place. I was raised there. It's my home. I still walk the streets and visit my neighbors. It is such a wonderful town. I feel like I know everyone. We are like family. I see them every day. It's like Mayberry, in a sense,” smiled Bell. “I would love to educate the community about what I do as a justice court judge. I have initiated a few programs in justice court, such as revitalizing the community service program and access to free legal services. I welcome invitations to speak at engagements and community functions. I enjoy interacting with people and becoming a part of their lives.”
Bell added, “I have become a lifetime learner through situations and people. I am now a professor of business management at Mississippi Valley State University, an entrepreneur, and the first black female justice court judge in the Northern District, which is my most incredible honor.”
After all the years have passed, Bell said family is still one of the most important parts of her life.
Bell has four siblings, Charles Jr, Shirley, Carolyn and Dennis, as well as many foster brothers and sisters across Sunflower County.
“I am grateful for my family, my husband, Mayor Torey Bell, and our four sons, Torey Jr., Simeon, Nathan and Nigel Bell. Now, I can add my granddaughter, Brooklynn, to the list,” explained Bell. “I have been married for 30 years. I've learned that family matters, and it would be harder to do what I do without their support. I am grateful for their sacrifices, protection and love. They stand with me and strengthen me. Like my mother, my home has been a refuge for multiple children whom I consider my godchildren.”
Bell said that she plans to help create a better and safer community by initiating rent relief programs, domestic abuse programs and safety classes.
