Diane Bell’s tragic passing has left the Portland and Millinocket communities grieving the sudden loss of a woman known for her kindness, dedication, and unwavering spirit. Bell, a cherished member of the Millinocket Marathon & Half team, was struck and
killed in an auto-pedestrian collision, a heartbreaking incident that has shaken runners, volunteers, and friends who saw her as an essential part of the annual event’s heart and soul. The details surrounding the collision remain under investigation, but authorities confirmed that she died at the scene, leaving loved ones devastated by a loss they never expected.
Diane was more than a volunteer—she was a driving force behind the marathon’s welcoming and community-focused atmosphere. Known for her warm smile, steady organizational skills, and ability to make newcomers feel instantly included, she helped shape the marathon into the celebrated event it has become.
Fellow team members say she was the kind of person who always showed up early, stayed late, and made sure everyone else had what they needed before thinking of herself.Outside her work with the marathon, Diane was deeply rooted in Portland’s community. Friends describe her as thoughtful, generous, and always willing to help,
whether it meant supporting a friend through a tough time or stepping in to assist with local events and charitable initiatives. Her loss leaves a void not only in the running world but in the everyday spaces where she made life brighter for those around her.In the days following the crash, tributes have poured in: runners sharing stories of her encouragement,
volunteers recalling her steady leadership, and friends mourning the sudden hole left in their lives. As the investigation continues, the marathon community is planning ways to honor her memory during upcoming events. Diane Bell’s legacy—one built on compassion, service, and community—will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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