Peter A. Bella, 1951–2025, was district attorney for Middlesex County
Peter Bella was a man whose life was defined by unwavering honesty, steadfast trustworthiness and a compassionate heart. Known for his sharp mind and no-nonsense approach to life, he offered wisdom freely and gave generously. His quiet strength, integrity, and genuine care for others left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
On Monday morning June 30, 2025 Peter A. Bella Esq., passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by his family, at the age of 74.
Born on January 19, 1951, in Waltham, son of the late Anthony Bella and Jennie (George) Bella, Peter was raised in Waltham where he had resided for many years before moving to Newton in 1978.
A graduate of Waltham High School with the Class of 1969, Peter furthered his education at Northeastern University and graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Boston with his bachelor’s degree. He continued his education at the New England School of Law in Boston, where he obtained his law degree.
He began an illustrious career in law as a district attorney for Middlesex County in Waltham District Court from 1979 until 1987. Peter opened the law offices of Peter A. Bella on Main Street in Waltham in 1987, where he worked alongside many other local attorneys until his retirement in 2020. He was a member of the Massachusetts Bar Association.
Peter over the years was involved in many local civic and charitable organizations including the Waltham Lions Club and GWARC. Although Peter had many different hobbies and interests over the years, including a passion for golfing, reading, cooking, doing yard work around the house and traveling, he was a simple man who enjoyed a fine cigar, glass of scotch and good conversation.
In the end nothing was more important to Peter than his family; they were his world, and he cherished every moment spent with his wife, daughters and grandchildren. He was a loving husband, father and “Papa”.
He will be greatly missed by so many that were fortunate to have known and loved him over the years.
Peter is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years Janice (Jigarjian) Bella; his devoted and loving daughters Jessica Bella and her husband Andrew Marchand and Robyn Bella Barry and her husband Kevin Barry; his cherished grandchildren Mia Marchand, Elliana Barry, Aleece Marchand, James Barry, Vivienne Barry and Edward Marchand; his dear siblings Carolyn McCormick, Barry Bella and Christopher Bella; and his adored mother-in-law Alice Jigargian. In addition, he is survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and numerous friends, who will all miss him dearly.
Those who wish to pay their respects to Peter and his family can do so in the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Son Memorial, 773 Moody Street, Waltham, on Monday, July 7, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. The funeral service is at noon, also in the Mary Catherine Chapel. Parking attendants will be on duty.
For those who wish to pay their final respects, but are unable to attend, please be sure to sign the guestbook at www.BrascoFuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center by visiting www.mskcc.org or the Dana Farber Cancer Jimmy Fund, by visiting danafarber.jimmyfund.org.
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I am so very sorry to hear this awful new about Peter.
I knew him since I was in grammar school and he in junior high, when he used to play football with the “guys” at the (Chucky) Agrillo “compound” across the street from my house on Trapelo. Over the years, I would run into to him at the Chateau. He handled some of my family’s estates, wills, etc. for me. He was an extremely learned and trustworthy attorney and an all-around great person.
My deepest condolences to his cherished family,
Sue Fielding (Trask)
RIP Peter, You were always a pleasure to be with, long time memories at the Lions Club back in the 80’s.