Dr. Robert L. Gell departed peacefully March 22, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born Jan. 21, 1935, in Ong, Robert dedicated his life to education, service, and his community, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and commitment. He will be interred at Sutton Cemetery at 11:30 a.m. on May 18, 2026. Dr. Gell received a BA in Education from Kearney College in 1956 and his first teaching assignment was a one-room schoolhouse. He joined the United Methodist Missionary and traveled to Zimbabwe on a 3-yr. assignment. He earned his MA and then PhD in Education from American University in Washington, DC. Robert served as President of Cecil College, MD for 22 years, contributing immensely to the academic landscape of the institution and shaping the lives of countless students. After retirement he was actively engaged in various civic activities, including serving as Town Commissioner for Charlestown, MD; participating in the Maryland Democratic Party; a dedicated member of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Charlestown, MD; and a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Cecil County, reflecting his deep commitment to nurturing future generations.

In his personal life, Robert cherished time spent on his beloved boat, “Pairadocs,” and many ski trips with family and friends.

Robert is survived by his devoted children: daughter, Angela Stanaway of Jamaica, VA; and son, Gregory Gell (Deanna Cochener- Gell), of Portland, OR; granddaughter, Emily Stanaway of Jamaica, VA; sister, Donna Lindburg; and brother, Kenneth Livingston, Jr.

Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Kahn Gell; his parents, Harry Gell and Bertha (Schmidt) Gell; and his brother, Gordon Gell.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Cecil College Foundation at [email protected] or visit cecil.edu/foundation or St. John’s United Methodist Church, MD, both of which were dear to Robert’s heart.