James "Jim" H Kell

James (Jim) H. Kell left our world to enter his heavenly home on September 11, 2024. He was born on May 14th, 1929, in Seminole, OK to Carl and Madge Kell. He married Esther Brountas on July 7th, 1956. He later married Barbara Barber Kell on August 10th, 1984.

From 1951 to 1954, Jim served the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He was stationed both in Bangor, ME and Guam in the South Pacific.

After serving his country, Jim began a long broadcasting career in 1954 that included radio and television. He was both a news and sports anchor with several local broadcasters.

His 2nd career began in the late 1960’s as a New York Life insurance agent.

After retirement, Jim became a full-time bird hunter, breeder, and trainer of world class bird dogs. Even in his later years, he actively competed in field dog trials and was a member of the Westark Field Trial Club. He and his prized English pointer “Buster” won numerous field trial championships. One of Jim’s favorite memories in life was hunting squirrels with his dad as a young boy.

Highlights of his life include the birth of his children, his career in broadcasting, celebrating Christmas with his family, and his 40+ year marriage to Barbara.

Jim was a long-time member of Goddard United Methodist Church, Fort Smith, AR 72901.

Jim was preceded in death by: Carl and Madge Kell, Esther Kell, Evan McKeever, and Wiliam McKever II.

Survivors include- Wife Barbara Kell.

Children- Jamie Kell Bond(Tom), Stacey Kell Sagely(John), Michelle Harp(John, MD), Matthew McKeever(Stephanie), and daughter-in-law Julie McKeever.

Grandchildren- Greg Bolin(Abbey), Melissa Bolin, Hunter Sagely(Morgan), Hannah Sagely Gordon(Hank), David Smith, Spencer Smith, Matthew McKeever II(Lacey), Christian McKeever, Jacqlyn McKeever, Madeline McKeever Crawford(Maxx), Paxton McKeever, Emily Taylor Hurst(Joey), Nathan Taylor, MD, Genie Malone, and 11 great grandchildren; Brother- Carl Kell, PHD; Niece- Kristiania Kell Bernhardt.

Visitation will be Monday September 16, 2024, from 5 – 7 PM at Edwards Funeral Home.

Funeral Service will be 1:00 PM Tuesday at Goddard United Methodist Church under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Burial will be in Roselawn Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be his grandchildren. Honorary Pallbearers will be the members of Westark Field Trial Club.

Memorial Contributions may be sent to Goddard United Methodist Church at 1922 Dodson Avenue, Fort Smith, AR 72901 or Westark Field Trial Club, c/o Dewayne Shackleford, 103 Beta Circle, Roland, OK 74954.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com