Chaka Cetewayo Bell Obituary (1967 - 2020)

Chaka Cetewayo Bell's birth name was inspired by two highly-celebrated African Zulu warrior kings, both great leaders who embodied strength, passion, intellect and integrity; the same qualities that Chaka embodied throughout his life--both personally and professionally. Chaka was born in Galveston, raised and educated in Houston, and his career as an IT Business Analyst began right out of college when he was hired by business magnate, Ross Perot. During his time at Perot Systems Consulting Services, Chaka honed a skill set that would later lead him to work for some of the biggest names in the healthcare industry, including Medicaid, Medicare, Dell Health Care and Life Sciences and United Health Group. Chaka's final stop was at Magellan Health as a Senior Analyst where he was being groomed to become a Vice President. With each promotion, Chaka relocated to a new city. He made a home in Dallas, Atlanta and Washington, D.C., but his favorite place was Miami Beach, where he enjoyed living in his waterfront apartment, appreciating the year-round sunny weather and being within walking distance to his favorite restaurants and the famous South Beach nightlife. As Chaka moved around the country, he collected a plethora of great friends, many who continued to call, text and email until his final day. He was a loyal and dedicated friend, one who always took time to listen and offer his support without hesitation or judgment. After being diagnosed with cancer in 2014, Chaka returned to his native Houston to begin aggressive treatment with a team of doctors at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Like the valiant Zulu warrior kings before him, Chaka courageously battled the disease before passing away on July 12, 2020 at the age of 52. He will be remembered by all the friends and loved ones whose lives he touched throughout his journey. It was Chaka's wish to forgo services and be cremated. To honor his life, please make a charitable donation in his name to Houston Hospice through their website: houstonhospice.org/donate-options