James D Bell's Obituary
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James “Jim” Devere Bell passed away peacefully on November 6th, 2024 after 91 blessed years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett Lee Bell and Marion Ila Underwood, as well as his siblings Charles, Bob "Bobby", and Sue.
Jim was married to his sweetheart and absolute love of his life, Barbara Bell, for over 63 years when she passed in July 2024. He is survived by his daughters Cindy (Steve) Smith, Terri (Momin) Khalil, his grandchildren Sabrina, Nadia, Aliya, Wes, and Nikki, his sisters-in-law Martha Bell and Jacqueline Bell, and many of his nieces, nephews, and other loved family members and friends.
Jim was born in his grandmother’s farmhouse near Puryear, Tennessee, moved to Paducah, KY and stayed through the 1937 flood, moved to Lacentre, KY, then Miland and Mackenzie and back to Puryear, TN, then spent the rest of his childhood in Paducah.
He was an active and well-loved graduate of Augusta Tilghman High School, Paducah, KY-- Class of ’52, and remained loyal throughout the years that followed by traveling from FL to attend as many class events as possible. He went to Murray State University on a football scholarship playing as a tight end. After injuring his knee, he joined the United States Navy. He completed active duty then was honorably discharged as an Aviation Electronics Technician, U.S. Naval Reserve in 1962. He then joined Mosler Safe Company as a service technician and worked his way up to Regional Manager and retired from Mosler after 36 years - taking him from Overland Park, KS (where he met his wife Barb), to Lubbock, TX, Oklahoma City, OK, Memphis, TN, and back to Overland Park and finally Tampa, FL where he's lived for 39 years.
Jim was known for his kind and gentle demeanor. He was the best husband, father, grandfather, and friend anyone could have ever asked for. He never raised his voice or spoke ill of anyone. He was witty and made us laugh often. He loved to spend time with family, watch Nascar, read (especially John Grisham and David Baldacci), play Sudoku, ping pong, and bowling, and go to the gym.
Jim lived an exceptionally full and happy life with no regrets. He is so loved by all of his family and friends and will be missed dearly.
Visitation is Monday, November 18th at 10:30 a.m. and the funeral services and burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Memorial Gardens, 12609 Memorial Dr, Trinity, FL 34655.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be made on Jim’s behalf to Martha’s Vineyard in Paducah, Kentucky to help feed those in need via Venmo @mvineyard40.
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