COLONIE – Wray Emile Bell, 82, of Colonie, passed away on Wednesday August 18, 2010 after complications from a stroke.
He was born on the island of Antigua in the West Indies. His family relocated briefly to St. Kitts and then to the island of St. Vincent where he spent his childhood and early adult years. He began his career in international banking there with Barclays Bank. Mr. Bell worked for Barclays in several positions of increasing responsibility in Trinidad and later in Jamaica where he was a manager prior to migrating to the U.S. in 1962. In addition, he held a degree from the London Institute of Bankers. Lastly, Mr. Bell was an associate at Macy's for many years prior to his retirement in 1994.
Mr. Bell was an avid fan of amateur radio and held licenses while residing in St. Vincent and Jamaica. He was also a holder of a U.S. General Class license. Mr. Bell was a member of the BBC North America Listener's Panel for many years. His other interests included international relations, politics and economics.
He is survived by his son, John of Colonie; his sister, Joan Goggi of White Plains, Maryland as well as his nieces and nephews; Michael and Wray Goggi of Waldorf, Maryland, Sandra Reese of McLean, Virginia and John Bell and June Therres of Toronto,Ontario.
Funeral services will be Monday morning at 11:00 at St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 49 Killean Park, Colonie. Interment will be in Memory Gardens. Calling hours will be Sunday from 3 to 6 pm at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd. Colonie.