John Anthony Bell, beloved son of the late Frank Bell and Liza James, was born in Sasser, Georgia on September 20, 1934.

He received his formal education in the Terrell County Public School System and participated in various school activities and events.

At an early age, he accepted Christ as his personal Savior and began his journey with the Lord at New Jerusalem Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend W. H. Holloway.  He was a faithful servant of the Lord and remained prayerful throughout his daily walk.

John was united in holy matrimony to Thelma Harris. Their union endured through the years as they honored their vows to love and cherish each other.  He was a loving husband and father loved without condition, encouraged his children to do the right things, and supported his family in all their endeavors.  For more than 28 years, he was employed with Dougherty County Public Works where he labored tirelessly—always giving his BEST.  Upon retirement, he was recognized as a loyal, dedicated, and dependable employee whose skills and work ethics were commendable.

"Son Bell" as he was endearingly called, loved his family; treasured his friends; and was always on call to help anyone in need.  He had a big heart for all things in life and greatly impacted the lives of everyone around him.  John had a deep passion for gardening.  Through each season, he could be found patiently tilling and cultivating the soil  which yielded a bountiful harvest that he gladly shared with family and friends.  He was unforgettable and will truly be missed.

On Thursday, February 11, 2021, "Son Bell" answered the Master's call to eternal rest.   In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by seven siblings, Frank Lake, Troucy Jones, Willie Frank Bell, Jackie Mitchell, Mary Dean Bell, Arthur Bell, and Clara Cicero; and two granddaughters, Jana Worthy and Latasha Davis.

Precious memories will forever remain with his loving and devoted wife, Thelma Bell; children, Willie (Roberta) Boyd, Patricia (Lucius) Bell, Lorraine (Willie) Bonner, Lucy (Walter) Pope, Janice (Charles) Shine, Carolyn (Rodney) Nixon, John (Tracie) Bell, Gloria J. Elliott, Thelma (Winfred) Turner, Roy J. Elliott, Delois Butler, Mary L. Cunningham, Willie M. Lucas, and Earnest (Betty) Lucas; goddaughter, Adonna (Dwight) Willis; 41 grandchildren, 71 great grandchildren, and 67 great -great  grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.