Ann Belt's Obituary
Ann Belt, age 88, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025. She was born November 24, 1936, in New York, New York, the daughter of the late Egildo Pieri and Helen Casci Pieri. Her husband, Alan P. Belt Jr., also preceded her in death.
When Ann was born, she weighed just 2 pounds, 14 ounces—a testament to her strength and resilience from the start. Raised by her father, Ann grew up with a strong sense of determination and dedication to her family, which defined her life.
Ann, was crowned Miss Eastchester during her high school years, a proud achievement of her youth. She began her career working in New York City, commuting daily by train from the home her father purchased in the early 1900s.
Ann met the love of her life, Alan P. Belt Jr., and they were married in 1963. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and family. In 1976, while six months pregnant with their sixth child, Ann and Alan made the courageous decision to leave Port Chester, New York, and relocate to Fayetteville, Arkansas. Starting fresh in a new place was a challenge, but they were committed to raising their family in Northwest Arkansas, a decision for which their family is forever grateful.
Ann worked for JCPenney’s in the Northwest Arkansas Mall until she retired after 25 years. She also worked at JB Hunt Transport starting in 1989 and worked until she retired after 32 years of service, at the age of 85. Throughout her life, Ann managed to balance the responsibilities of a full-time job with raising six children.
Ann had a passion for travel, creating lifelong memories on trips to Italy, several countries in Western Europe, New Zealand, Ireland, Alaska, Hawaii, and nearly every U.S. state. She also enjoyed bowling, playing golf and watching Survivor with all her children. Ann loved supporting her grandchildren’s activities and sporting events, always cheering them on with enthusiasm.
She is survived by her children, Paula Vance, Paige Crockett, Pamela Johnston, Patty Kittell, Alan Parker Belt III, and Penny Belt; 11 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 3 nieces; and 1 nephew.
A memorial visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, at Nelson Berna Funeral Home in Fayetteville. A funeral mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fayetteville. To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com (http://www.bernafuneralhomes.com)
Ann’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her but forever cherished in the hearts of her loved ones. Donations can be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church at https://www.sjfay.com
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