Gene Bell Jr., of Rockford departed this earthly life December 17, 2021. He was born March 15, 1937 in Indianola, Mississippi the son of Beatrice Sanders and Gene Bell Sr. Gene lived in Rockford since 1972 coming from Peoria, IL. Gene was married 44 years to Everlena Bell. He was employed as a detailer by Lou Bachrodt Car Dealership 10 years before retiring. He was a faithful member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church serving as Chairman of the Deacons, on the  Usher Board and President of the Male Chorus.  Gene was a avid bowler playing on many leagues and the Thursday Senior League. He attended school in Mississippi.

Gene leaves to cherish many loving memories, his daughter, Denise Bell; and son, Chris Lovett; and 11 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild; a host of other relatives and friends including Luther and Debbie Crumbley who became family and played a special part in Genes life. He was predeceased by his parents; and son, James Eugene Bell and grandson, Rashaun Griffin.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 27, 2021 at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 404 N. Avon St. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.