John Robert Bell's Obituary
John (Jack) Robert Bell died peacefully in his sleep on January 3, 2021. Born August 7, 1938 in Beaver Falls, PA, he was the son of the late John Henry Bell and Shyrl Wise Bell. He was a devoted husband to Elizabeth Breckenridge Bell for over 62 years. He was a loving father to his three sons John M. (Cindy) of Texas, Christopher (Deanna) of Richfield, and Scott (Dina) of Louisiana. In addition to his wife and sons, he is survived by eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his half-sister Beverly Bell Runkle and his half-brother Patrick Reed Bell.
John was a firm believer in giving back to his community, including volunteer work. While in Colorado, he first worked with the youth group Junior Achievement. Later, he volunteered for seven years as an officer with the Aurora Police Department. He worked with United Airlines for 28 years and later as a computer consultant. He was an election judge in Albemarle and Colorado for over 9 years. Most people from Albemarle, however, know him from working at Harris Teeter.
John definitely believed in the power of prayer and experienced many blessing and miracles first hand. As a member of the Episcopal Church, he served as a lay pastor in multiple congregations. The ?Blessing of the Bikes? service introduced him to so many young people he might not have ever met. And because animals are so near and dear to his heart, the ?Blessing of the Animals? services were always a special treat.
In addition to Pennsylvania, he lived in Chicago, California, Colorado, Missouri, Arizona, Maryland and New York. He and his wife moved to Albemarle about 15 years ago to escape the snow in Colorado and to be closer to their son and his family. They fell in love with the city and its people and made it home.
He had a soft spot for animals, especially kitties. He and his wife fed and cared for many of Albemarle?s kitties without homes, including paying for their vet bills to keep them well and to prevent future kittens. The kitties were their other children. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to an animal rescue organization of your choice.
Stanly Funeral Home is assisting the family. Arrangements have not been made at this time.
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