Samuel E. Belle

Samuel E. Belle, a beacon of unwavering love and selfless dedication, concluded his remarkable journey on earth on February 26, 2025, at Geisinger Medical Center in Muncy. Born on August 17, 1933, in Williamsport to the late Samuel and Charlotte (Irvin) Belle, he embodied the spirit of service and passion throughout his 91 years.

Samuel's life was a testament to the power of commitment and perseverance. He proudly served his country during the Korean War and returned to build a foundation of community and education. After his time in the U.S. Army, Samuel continued his civilian duties for six years, serving and protecting as a Williamsport City Police Officer. Education was Samuel's arena of influence. After graduating from Williamsport Area High School, he attended Bloomsburg University for two years before obtaining his Bachelor's Degree from Lycoming College. His commitment to education did not stop at his personal achievements; Samuel went on to inspire young minds as a social studies teacher at the Williamsport Area High School for three decades. Proud to be a WAHS Millionaire, he was not only a teacher but also a mentor, coaching track for 50 years, football for 15 years, and cross-country for 10 years. His dedication to the school and its students was immortalized through the WAHS Distinguished Alumni Service Award, a tribute to his enduring impact.

Samuel's leadership extended beyond the classroom. He was a current supportive member of Shiloh Baptist Church and Bethune-Douglas Community Center where he spent countless hours coaching youth athletics. His influence and dedication are what led to his induction as President of the West Branch Hall of Fame. A pillar of strength, a source of wisdom, and a model of integrity, Samuel approached each day with the energy of a coach, the wisdom of a teacher, and the heart of a family man.

Samuel was married to his beloved wife Shirley E. Belle for 64 years. Surviving in addition to his wife are his children Cameron Belle and Holly Belle, step-children Colleen Haefner, Heather Breon, and Lisa Hale, and his sister, Esther Smith. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Daphne Anderson and Vivian Belle, and step-son Paul Colley, II. The legacy of his love and guidance lives on through his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His legacy is not just in the accolades and awards, but in the character of the people he shaped, the community he helped build, and the family he cherished.

Funeral services to honor Samuel’s life will be held 11:30 a.m. Friday, March 14, 2025, at Shiloh Baptist Church, 433 Walnut St., Williamsport, with the Reverend Dr. Raymond L. Clayton, Sr. officiating. Burial will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Williamsport. A viewing will be held prior from 10 a.m. until the time of service, at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in support of an athlete to the Williamsport Area School District Education Foundation, memo line Bethune-Douglass Award, 2780 West Fourth St., Williamsport, PA 17701, and/or the Sam Belle Award. The Bethune-Douglass Award was established by Samuel in January of 2024 to give to a senior who participated in 3 varsity sports, maintained a character of leadership, perseverance, inclusivity and racial harmony. The Sam Belle Award was established in February of 2024 to a respected student who participated as a multi student athlete who is attending a post-secondary institution to major in education, human services, or law enforcement.

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