James Bell

The Life and Legacy of a Good Man

"The best portion of a good man's life is his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love."

James Edward Bell, a "Good Man", age 84, of West Paducah, KY, passed away Monday, November 1, 2021, 8:31 p.m., at Baptist Health Hospital of Paducah. He was born July 2, 1937, to the parents of the late Clarence Bell and Birdie Mitchell Bell.

James was a former member of Oakalone Christian Church where he served faithfully as an usher.  He was presently a member of Bethel Christian Church in Kevil, KY.

James was a graduate of the former Lincoln High School and West Kentucky Vocational School where he earned certification in masonry. He was a hard working man whose first job was at Fredrick Beyers Orchards. He was employed for 32 years at Martin Marietta Energy Systems as a painter. While at Martin Marietta, he was known to a select group of friends as either "Slim" or "Julio". No one outside this group had the privilege of doing so.  He was a known workaholic whose personal work schedule began at 7:00 a.m. each morning until after midnight. Within that time period he managed to work at the plant from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., painted houses from 4:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. or 11:00 p.m. and from there he worked in environmental services at Elks Lodge #217 where he was deemed as an honorary member.

James was a super sharp dresser who always dressed to the max wherever he went. He was a bowling enthusiast and was a member of Pacesetters Bowling League, Monday Night Mixed Bowling League, Union Carbide Bowling League and TNBA Traveling Bowling League of which he won many trophies until his health prevented him from doing so.

James was an active member of the former Sportsman's Club. His other interests in life included fishing, gardening, shopping at flea markets (especially for antiques). James took great joy in watching his children and grandchildren participate in all sports activities.

He leaves many loved ones to cherish his legacy of love. They include his wife of 59 1/2 years, Stella Lovelace Bell of West Paducah, KY; one son, James (Katina Shannon) Bell II of West Paducah, KY; one daughter, Sharla Bell Harris of Ellenwood, GA; three grandsons, Christopher Diante Bell of Ellenwood, GA; Ja'ven Bell and Ja'Quincy Bell both of West Paducah, KY; one granddaughter, Sharica Shante Blythe of Ellenwood, GA; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Billy Joe Bell of West Paducah; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and a wide circle of friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Bell and Birdie Mitchell Bell; a daughter, Arlene Delaine Bell; three brother, Wilbert Bell, Ellis Bell, and Paul Bell, Sr; one brother and sister who died in infancy; two nephews, Carlos Bell and Carlton Bell; three sisters-in-law, Pearl Bell, Lessie Bell, and Lois Bell. He will be remembered by all who loved and knew him for the great friend he was to so many.

Funeral Services have been scheduled for Saturday, November 13, 2021, 11:00 a.m., at Bethel Christian Church in Kevil, KY., with Brother Nate Hillebrand and Reverend Benny Heady officiating.

Friends may also call at the church on Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. until the funeral hour. Entombment will follow at Maplelawn Park Cemetery.