Tributes flow as Eric is laid to rest

Ngunnawal Elder Eric Bell OAM was laid to rest yesterday in a moving tribute to a true gentleman and humble community advocate unlike any other.

The funeral was held at St Augustine’s Catholic Church in Yass and was one of the largest turn-outs Father Mick Burke had seen in seven years officiating funerals.

Eric had asked long-time friend Laurie Hutchison to deliver the eulogy, and Eric’s son Darren, grandson Ted and Mayor Rowena Abbey also shared their memories.

Eric Bernard Bell OAM 17 March 1940 – 1 December 2015.

“For those who have given so much help to the Ngunnawal, Eric says ‘thank you’ and hopes you will continue supporting Ngunnawal… [helping] all who are in need, regardless of where or who you came from,” Laurie said.

“To all of you here today, who loved and respected Eric, and to those who unfortunately couldn’t make it today to the celebration of his life, I know that Kay and all the family express their genuine love and appreciation and your thoughts at this time,” he said.

Longtime mate Laurie Hutchison delivered the eulogy at Eric Bell’s funeral yesterday.

“Not only did [Eric] never see colour, there was always something deep inside all of us that gave us a love and respect for each other as human beings, and so, Eric’s final lesson begins.

“… We cannot turn the clock back and rectify what most people now know and deeply regret, we can only move on and determine the… democracy in such a way that community policy in future mitigates against oppressing minorities.”

Mrs Abbey described Eric as selfless, quietly spoken and with an unwavering dedication to providing a greater understanding of Aboriginal issues.

“For those who have been privileged to know Eric, you should count yourself blessed. Eric was [known for his]never-ending energy and passion for his community.

“He was always good for a laugh or a joke occasionally too, when you were feeling nervous or concerned.

Eric Bell’s son Darren shared memories of his father during the funeral Mass.

Yass Mayor Rowena Abbey spoke about Eric’s commitment to community and advancing Aboriginal and reconciliation issues.

“Eric was well known throughout the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities and gained respect from everyone he met.”

A member of the God’s Squad delivered the Prayers of the Faithful and Eric’s grandson Matthew incensed the coffin while Fr Mick sprinkled baptismal water.

Mathew Sepping, Khyle Hoskin, Matthew Hoskin-Bell, Wayne Salmon, Ashley Bell and Luke Clulow were pall bearers.

He was laid to rest at Yass Lawn Cemetery.

Eric’s grandson Matthew visited from Adelaide and incensed the coffin.

Father Mick shared Eric’s last words with him before his death.

“The last words Eric ever said to me… I said we’ve been praying for you… and he said ‘well you can tell Him he can come and grab me whenever he likes’… he was prepared to meet his Maker.”

Eric Bernard Bell OAM 17 March 1940 – 1 December 2015.

*Coverage provided with his family’s permission.

Read related story here.

Yass Police, Yass Hospital staff and students at Mount Carmel School (where Eric studied as a child) performed a Guard of Honour as the hearse passed down Dutton Street.

St Augustine’s Catholic Church overflowed to the outside area with people celebrating the life of Eric Bell OAM.

The cross from the old Hollywood Mission was used during the ceremony.