Bella Grace Wardlaw, 13, of Phoenix, Arizona, formerly of Rome, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, February 23, 2026.
Born March 29, 2012, in Rome, Georgia, Bella was the cherished daughter of Andrew David Wardlaw and Beth Lumpkin Wardlaw. A student at Hillcrest Middle School, she was known for her artistic gifts and love of music — her creativity and gentle spirit were evident in everything she made.
Bella enjoyed playing flag football with Core 5, delighted in all varieties of flowers, and treasured sunsets, often asking her family to stop so she could capture the perfect moment for her collection. Her bright, infectious laugh brought light to every room and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
An active member of the youth group at Pure Heart Church, Bella lived her faith and is now rejoicing in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
She is survived by her parents, Beth and Andrew Wardlaw of Phoenix, AZ; her siblings, Kaleb Bowen and Shyann Wardlaw; grandparents David and Linda Wardlaw and Clint Lumpkin; her Meme, Kathleen Lumpkin; and her aunt and uncle, Faith Wolfe (Chris) and Jason Brown. She also leaves numerous great aunts, great uncles, cousins, and extended family who loved her dearly.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Pleasant Valley South Baptist Church, with the Rev. Eric Whelchel officiating. Interment will follow at Rome Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 12:00 PM until service time at the church. Pallbearers will assemble by 1:30 PM and include J.T. Williams, Tyler Whelchel, Ben Whelchel, Rob Whelchel, Conner Arrington, Asa Serapion, Stephen Payne, and Kevin Payne.
Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, is honored to serve the family of Bella Grace Wardlaw.