Marion Stanton "Stan" Bell

Marion Stanton “Stan” Bell died peacefully on Monday, July 6, 2026, at the age of 88. Stan was born to Ernest and Montine Bell on a small rural farm near the end of Tallassee Road in what was then Jackson County, Georgia. He graduated from Athens High School and studied at Young Harris College before devoting himself to a career in insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Stan married a young school teacher named Judy Davis in 1960 and before long welcomed a daughter, Tina, and a son Robert. He was especially fond of his grandson, Eli, who affectionately called him Papa. After suffering the loss of Judy in 1999, he eventually filled the void in his heart by marrying Suzanne Lockhart.

We remember Stan for his kind heart and mild manner, and devotion to family. He is preceded in death by both Judy and Suzanne; brother, Henry Clifton Bell; and daughter, Tina McCowan.

Left to honor Stan and his memory are his son, Robert Bell (Linda); grandson, Elijah Bell; son-in-law, Charlie McCowan; and Suzanne’s daughters: Kathy Lester (Robert), Cindy Hartman (Tim), Cristy Lockhart; her grandsons: Matthew Lester (Laura) and James Lester (Julee); and all who loved him.

Visitation will be Saturday, July 11 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Bernstein Funeral Home, 3195 Atlanta Highway, Athens, Georgia. A graveside service will follow at 3:00 p.m., in Prospect Cemetery, 334 Prospect Church Road, Athens.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.