Executive Board/Funeral Directors

Doris D. Bell

President and Co-Founder

Doris D. Bell, 92, is the wife of the late Frank R. Bell.  As President, she continues to uphold the dream of this Brooklyn-based African-American business started fifty-six years ago by her beloved husband.  Having experienced the test of times and prevailed, Mother Bell is steadfastly dedicated to this special ministry.  When there is loss of a loved one, families require the comfort, care and commitment to help them through those difficult times.  Under Mother Bell's watchful eyes, that standard of service has not changed since 1957.  She gives nothing less than 100% of herself when it comes to the families served by Frank R. Bell Funeral Home.  (N.Y.S.L.F.D.)

Frances Bell Henry

Chief Executive Officer

For nearly thirty-five years, Frances Bell Henry has helped to continue the legacy of her father, the late Frank R. Bell. A former elementary school teacher, Frances' level of professionalism is unparalleled.  She possesses a wealth of compassion and believes every family is worthy of expert care. The legacy of Frank R. Bell rests on that uncompromised precept. Her intentional ministry of caring for families during difficult times makes every family feel they are part of her family.  Frances' dedication to the Funeral Home's promise of care, comfort and commitment is unwavering.  (NYSLFD)  To read what our community of families has to say about Frank R. Bell Funeral Home, please go to Testimonials.

Robert L. Henry

Vice President

Robert L. Henry heeded the clarion call to venture into the funeral service business in 2006 when his wife, Frances Bell Henry, found the demands of maintaining the legacy-rich family-owned and operated business somewhat overwhelming.  Bob retired from architecture, and at the age of 74 returned to school to earn a degree in Mortuary Science, ultimately becoming a Licensed Funeral Director. As Vice President and valued member of the Executive Board, his diversity of life experiences and deep, caring attitude render him a tremendous asset to the business and families served by Frank R. Bell Funeral Home. (NYSLFD)

Dr. Eric D. Garnes

Corporate Secretary/Treasurer

Bishop Eric D. Garnes, D.Min. is a celebrated pastor, preacher, teacher and scholar of the Gospel which naturally engenders him to care, comfort and commitment. On staff since 1985, in his role as Corporate Secretary/Treasurer at Frank R. Bell Funeral Home and Executive Board Member, he is deeply committed to maintaining the degree of excellence that has been the legacy of Frank R. Bell Funeral Home for the past sixty years. (NYSLFD)

Cory J. Vaughn

Licensed Funeral Director

Cory J. Vaughn recognized his passion for funeral service at a very young age.  After years of personal development through professional training and mentoring programs, his skills have shaped him into a highly-proficient, compassionate funeral director. Cory holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Education, and received his Mortuary Science degree at American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service.  Often overseeing high-profile, military and law enforcement funeral services, Cory pours his heart and soul into his position as funeral director.  In 2012 Cory received numerous awards for his exemplary and compassionate funeral service to the community by the Brooklyn Farragut Lions Club, NYC Council, NYS Assembly and the NYS Senate.  He has been with the Frank R. Bell Funeral Home since 2005.

Email: cory@frankrbellfh.com

Curvelle V. Larocque

Licensed Funeral Director

Curvelle V. Laroque is blessed with a spirit of excellence.  She realized her calling to be in the funeral service business while growing up in Dominica, West Indies. That passion has remained and is evident in the efficient and professional way she works with families during their times of bereavement. Curvelle is a 2002 graduate of American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service (NYC), and has been with Frank R. Bell Funeral Home since 2008.   

Email: curvelle@frankrbellfh.com

Jacqueline Sherman

Licensed Funeral Director

Jacqueline Sherman realized at the tender age of sixteen that she had a desire in her heart to be a funeral director.  Her ministry was to reveal the love of God to those who were hurting.  Jacqueline has been licensed since September 7, 1997 and is “class personified”. Jacqueline carries herself with dignity, grace and compassion. She has been with the Frank R. Bell Funeral Home since 2013.

Email: jacqueline@frankrbellfh.com

Cherisse E. Toppin

Licensed Funeral Director

From the age of twelve, Cherisse E. Toppin knew she wanted to become a licensed funeral director after speaking to someone at a career day in middle school. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Cherisse is a 2004 graduate of St. John’s University with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. She graduated with honors from American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service in 2006. She has been with Frank R. Bell Funeral Home since 2007.

Email: cherisse@frankrbellfh.com

Malcolm J. Sweet

Licensed Funeral Director

Malcolm J. Sweet born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., he was called to be a funeral director he knew it. With the support, instruction and direction of all the funeral directors who saw talent in him, he realized his calling to be a funeral director at the age of 22. Malcolm is a 2013 graduate of American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service (NYS). Since being licensed in 2014, he has grown into a funeral director known for his poise, patience, professionalism and compassion. He joined Frank R. Bell Funeral Home in December of 2017.

Email: malcolm@frankrbellfh.com