James Theo Bell

James Theo Bell “Fonzo” 87, of Citrus Heights, California passed away Friday, January 22, 2016, at Providence Hospital in Everett, Washington with his loving family by his side. James was born on July 11, 1928, in Camden, Tennessee to Charlie and Pearl Bell. He was the youngest of six children born to Charlie and Pearl. James proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1960, as a Boatswain’s Mate Third-Class (E-4). His assignments consisted of several ships, including USS Midway, USS Lapwing, and USS Saratoga. In 1963, he moved to Linda, California where he started a family with Josie Charlene and devoted a twenty-four year career to the Maintenance Department at Yuba College. He later obtained his Locksmith license and served the Sacramento area community as a Master Locksmith for Bell’s Mobile Locksmith and J & J Locksmith of Sacramento. James enjoyed camping, fishing, and meeting people. He was a skilled gardener and woodcrafter, where he used his skills to build anything from furniture to storage boxes. He had an incredible ability to make the best of his surroundings; no matter what was going on in his life, he always greeted friends and strangers with kind words. James was known for sharing stories of his colorful life; he always had a twinkle in his eyes, and left those who crossed his path with a smile on their face and a chuckle. He loved all animals, big and small, but had a great love for his cats. James is survived by his daughter Jama Bell-Wahl; two grandchildren: Shanae and Trevor; four stepchildren: Linda (Larry) Lewis, Kevin (Debbie) Lynn, Diana (David) House, Elana (Steve) Walsh, and several loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, February 9, at 12:00 p.m., at Mount Vernon Memorial Park & Mortuary, 8201 Greenback Ln, Fair Oaks, California, 95628, with a reception to follow. James will forever be missed and loved. Please visit the online guest book: