David Joyce Bell, 83, passed away peacefully at his home Wednesday, March 17, 2021, surrounded by all who loved him after being taken away by Alzheimer’s. He was born at home on January 22, 1938, in Harlowe, NC, in Carteret County to the late Armistead Nash Bell and Pearl J. Small Bell.
David graduated from Beaufort High School in 1956 and then enlisted in the US Army from 1958 to 1962. Moving to Raleigh, NC, in 1960, David started work with Roane Barker Inc. and in 1973 was employed by Owens and Minor, Inc. as a sales representative until he retired in March 1995. With these companies, David sold medical and surgical supplies and was Salesman of the Year many times.
Outside of work, David enjoyed the outdoors, bowling, fishing, eating oysters, and spending time at the coast. Upon retirement, he developed a hobby for antiquing and enjoyed doing this with his wife and girls. All that knew him, knew his family was his life. David was also fond of the Senior Men’s Class at Bethlehem Baptist Church and was ready to serve in any capacity for his church family or community in a quiet reserved way. He always had a willing heart to help and a contagious smile for everyone he met.
David is survived by his wife of 60 years and 11 months, Brenda Smith Bell. Daughters: Renee Bell Adams (Cliff) and Dana Bell Brush (Steve). Grandchildren: Morgan Brush Sandwick (Sean), Clayton Adams, Amber Brush, Jacob Adams, Jessica Brush, Luke Brush. Sister: Eloise Turner and numerous nieces and nephews. Sisters-in-law: Virginia Bell, Sheron Bell, Sheila Clemenic, and Charlotte Bercegeay (Mark).
Upon his death, David is not only rejoicing with Jesus, but with an infant son. He is with his twin brother, Roger and brothers: Cecil, Edsel, RW, Royal, and twins Clyde and Carl, as well as, sisters Blanche Williams and Lina Bell Bowlin.
A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held at 2:30 pm, Sunday, March 21, 2021 at Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery, 8400 Poole Road, Knightdale, NC 27545 with military honors. The family will visit with family and friends immediately following the graveside service. Please wear a face covering and practice social distancing to ensure everyone’s safety.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, on which David served, or Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org).
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