Joseph Bell

Joseph “Joey” Bell was born on February 25, 1962, in Rockford, Illinois to Joseph Bell Sr. and Eula Mae Lott. He was a loving son, devoted friend, gifted musician, and a man remembered for his intelligence, kindness, and quiet determination. Joey graduated in 1980 from Auburn High School in Rockford, Illinois, where he proudly played on the school football team. During his school years, he was known for being exceptionally academically gifted, earning A’s in his courses effortlessly and impressing teachers and classmates alike with his sharp mind and natural ability to learn. Determined to continue his education, Joey later attended Carl Sandburg College, where he earned a degree in Business in 1995. He valued education deeply and believed strongly in working hard to create opportunities for himself and those around him. Joey was also a talented and passionate musician. He played both the bass guitar and lead guitar with incredible skill, mastering music both by ear and through reading musical notation. In his younger years, he played for Calvary Temple Church in Rockford, Illinois, where his gift for music inspired many. He especially enjoyed teaching young children how to play the guitar, sharing not only his talent but also his patience and encouragement with others. Music was one of Joey’s greatest joys, and he loved listening to a wide variety of artists and musical styles throughout his life. Joseph R. Bell was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Bell Sr. and Eula Mae Lott; both his maternal and paternal grandparents; one sister; and two children. He leaves to cherish his loving memory two daughters: Jade Bell, and Brittany Bell, two sons: Brandon Bell and DeAngelo Bell; 8 Grandchildren, three sisters: Beverly Bell, Kimberly (Marcus) Evans, and Dr. Eunita Haskins; one brother: Gerald (Becky) Bell; a host of nieces and nephews; a host of cousins; lifelong friends: Greg Curry, Michael Sharp, Floyd Gregg, Angelo Burnell, and Ann Nesby; along with extended family members, classmates, church family, and all those whose lives were touched by his kindness, wisdom, and music. Joey will always be remembered for his warm spirit, intelligence, sense of humor, and the love he shared with family and friends throughout his life. His presence touched many, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. “Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”