Bella M Sokolov

Bella M. Sokolov 82, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026.

Bella was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia on September 23, 1943 to her late parents Efrim and Sofia Minevich. Bella courageously came to America in search of a better life for herself and her daughter. She often said, “I came to America not for me, but for my future grandchildren.” Those words captured the purpose that guided her life. Long before she ever became a grandmother, she dreamed of creating opportunities and brighter future for the generations that would follow.

Through determination, resilience, and hard work, Bella built a successful career and became one of the first Russian manicurists in Indianapolis. Her success inspired many other Russian immigrants to follow the same path, opening doors and creating opportunities for others to build new lives and careers in their adopted home.

Bella’s greatest joy was her family. She loved them with all her heart, and nothing brought her more happiness than her grandsons, Dylan and Jordan. They were the center of her world, and she would do anything for them.

Her love, strength, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family defined her life and touched everyone who knew her.

Bella is survived by her husband, Edward Sokolov; her loving daughter, Inna Nelson Donsky; her sister, Dora Sterkin; her Grandson’s Dylan Donsky, Jordan Donsky her two nephews; her stepdaughter; three step-grandchildren; four step great-grandchildren; and many cousins and dear friends, who will miss her deeply.

Bella leaves behind a legacy of courage, sacrifice, perseverance, and unconditional love. She fulfilled the dream she carried with her when she came to America, and her family is living proof of that dream. She will be forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.

Graveside services will be held Monday, August 3rd at 2 PM at Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation North Cemetery, 1300 East 161st Street.

May her memory be a blessing.

Arrangements entrusted to Aaron Ruben Nelson Mortuary. www.arnmortuary.com