I’ve been a neighbor of Jim and Tu Ye for 9 years. I'm a widow who has been blessed by their kindness, generosity and friendship. I met them when they moved into our complex in 2016. Our garages are a few doors apart so when I get my mail, I would see Jim in the garage working on his art. One day I introduced myself and that day began a new friendship. I was told he was in the Air Force for 30 years. In his retirement, he had time to pursue his painting. He was a talented artist. I have several of his paintings in my living room and will treasure them forever.
Jim was a bright light in our community. All the neighbors loved seeing him outside his garage in the evening. Some would stop by to talk or some would wave as they drove by. Most importantly, he had a box of toys and some of his paintings for the little kids to choose from as they played in front of his garage. It brought him joy when he saw their smiling faces. Jim knew almost everyone who passed by and always greeted them with a big smile or friendly wave.
Jim was on the Board of Directors of our Homeowners Association and made our community a better place to live. I remember once I had a water leak in my condo and Jim was right there going above and beyond to make sure the problem was resolved quickly. Jim was also our “eyes and ears,” keeping our community safe.
Personally, I am so grateful for Jim’s concern for my welfare when my husband was living in another place for Alzheimer’s. Jim would text to make sure I was okay. Even after my husband passed, Jim continued to text to ask if I needed help with anything. Despite his own challenges, Jim was always thinking about others. His compassion and resilience are an inspiration. Jim is the most caring, generous and kind-hearted person I have known. I will miss him dearly, but I know he is with His Lord and Savior now. I’m grateful to Tu Ye, Mike and Lisa for their loving care for him. Rest in peace, Jim, I will see you again one day in heaven.

I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend, CMSgt James Bell. Jim and I shared a friendship and bond forged through our service in the United States Air Force. Our time at Yokota Air Base in Japan from 1986 to 1989 holds some of my most cherished memories—years filled with dedication, camaraderie, and the kind of laughter and brotherhood that only those who serve together can truly understand.

Jim embodied the very best of what it meant to wear the uniform — integrity, honor, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow Airmen. But more than that, he was a loyal friend, a trusted wingman, and a man of deep character whose kindness and sense of humor left an indelible mark on everyone privileged to know him.

Though the years have passed since our days overseas, the memories remain vivid, and Jim's friendship will always hold a special place in my heart. The world has lost a great man, but his legacy of service, friendship, and devotion lives on in all fortunate to serve alongside him.

My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who mourn his loss. May he rest in peace, knowing he made a difference in this world and the lives of so many.

Fair winds and following seas, my friend. Until we meet again.

It saddened me to learn of the passing of a good friend.  Jim and I had the misfortune (just kidding) of being stationed in Hawaii together at HQ PACAF LGT.  Jim was the Traffic Management Command Chief Manager and I was the Vehicle Maintenance Command  Chief Manager.   We shared many conversations and war stories.  One of which was a discussion about hot peppers.  I explained that my Dad back in Nebraska grew hot peppers as  a hobby and shared the pickled peppers with his neighbors and friends. Jim proceeded to turn me on to some Thai Pepper seeds that I sent to my Dad.  Of course he planted them in his garden and couldn't wait for them to mature. Once he got them pickled he shared them with his friends at the local pub. Naturally he gleefully laughed when he lit up his buddies who thought they could handle anything hot.   Jim and I had a good laugh when I shared the results of his gift to my Dad.      I  will miss him.  R. I. P. my friend.  CMSgt Ray Wood (Retired)

Jim and I were stationed together in Japan and Hawaii for many years, he in TMO and I in vehicle maintenance. 
We stayed in touch occasionally via email and through a newsletter that I publish. I was saddened to learn of Jim's passing. I will miss him, but the memories we shared will always be with me.
May he rest in peace, and God bless the Bell family.

The last time the four of us were together we took the lilacs from the farm in Wisconsin We planted them in Claire's yard in Joplin 
Missouri they bloomed this year.

Janice, Jim , Claire and Linda
April 2012

I am sorry for your loss.  I will always remember playing word games on the computer with Uncle Jim.  It was definitely an enjoyable  challenge.

OBITUARY

James William Bell

September 6, 1948 – June 3, 2025

El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley & Memorial Park

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