In Loving Memory 

  Celebrating the Life Bella Ivkova (May 24, 1931-April 23, 2025) 

Early Life  

Bella was born on May 24, 1931 in a small town of Slutsk, Belorussia (USSR at the time). Her dad Israel was accountant, and her mom was a housewife. She was the youngest of 4 children. She was only in 3rd grade when World War Two started. Part of her school years were spent suffering from hunger in the Ural city of Nizhniy Tagil, during evacuation with her mother and siblings while her dad was in the military fighting Nazis.  

Education, Career, Personal Life  

After the war ended and Bella graduated high school, she went to study at the Baku Pedagogical Institute to become a teacher.  Her passion for literature and books led to a fulfilling career as schoolteacher, as well as librarian later on in life. In Baku, after graduating from the Pedagogical Institute, she married Russian Navy Officer Georgy Ivkov and her daughter Olga was born soon after.  She was a loving wife and a wonderful mother. Bella made a very brave decision to immigrate alone to United States in 1999 and soon invited the rest of her family to reunite with her, which was amazing opportunity - the rest of family would not be able to get a visa without her. The last 25 happy years of her life she spent in town of Newton, MA. Being a warm, kind person she made many friends among neighbors and Russian speaking community very quickly. Bella studied English at the Roxbury community college and was able to speak and write English fluently even though she did not know any English before her immigration to USA. She was a very interesting, well rounded and smart person and loved reading. She was very sweet, smart and kept up to date with news and the world until her last days.   

Legacy  

Bella’s love, care and kindness impact reached far beyond her immediate circle. She touched the lives of many through her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support. Bella will be remembered for unconditional love for her family and kindness to everyone around her, her beautiful singing voice and her smile. She is leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.  

Memorial Service  

A memorial service to celebrate Bella’s life will be held on May 1st at 11:30am 

At the Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre Street, West Roxbury, MA 02132.  

Family and friends are invited to honor her memory and share stories of the beautiful moments shared with her. After the service we will proceed to the Beth El Cemetery, 776 Baker st West Roxbury MA 02132.  

  After Burial everyone is invited to funeral feast at 2pm to celebrate life of Bella at Seasons 52 Restaurant, 220 Boylston st, Chestnut Hill MA 02467.  

Final Thoughts  

Though Bella may no longer be with us physically, her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing this wonderful woman. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, we also celebrate the incredible life she lived and the indelible mark she left on the world.  

Rest in peace, Bella. Your memory will be cherished, and your legacy will endure.