Fred Russell Bell

He was born in Athens on December 16, 1942, son of the late George Hubert and Wynona Tindall Bell. He graduated from Athens High School in 1960 and from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1964. He served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968. Fred R. Bell and his family owned and operated Bell’s Food Stores in Athens and northeast Georgia.

He was a member of Bridge Community Church, formerly Young Harris Memorial United Methodist Church, and served in various roles at the church over many years. He was a member the University of Georgia Alumni Society and the YMCA.

Fred will be remembered for his dedication to the family business, commitment to his church, and steadfast love of his family. He enjoyed the beach and pool, watching sports, especially the Bulldogs, and meals with family and friends.

He is survived by his loving partner, Denise M. Sims; three children: Russell P. Bell and wife Michele, Angela D. Bell and husband Rob, and Mark T. Bell and wife Amy; and five grandchildren: Matteo, Jacob, Caroline, Miles, and Amelia.

The family will receive friends Saturday, January 17, from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m., at Bernstein Funeral Home in Athens. The funeral will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel at Bernstein Funeral Home with the Reverend Dr. Luis Ortiz officiating. A private burial service will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Ralph Costa Jr., Mike Kelley, Steve Middlebrooks and grandchildren Matteo Bell-Castile, Jacob Bell-Castile, and Miles Bell.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Bridge Community Church, formerly Young Harris Memorial United Methodist Church, 973 Prince Avenue, Athens, GA 30606.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.