"Nookie" moved through life with a steady, hard-earned strength—someone who knew the value of showing up, doing the work well, and doing it with care. A renowned concrete finisher, he built more than what could be measured in smooth lines and solid surfaces; he built trust, pride, and a reputation that spoke for itself.
He shared 49 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Karen Elizabeth Cook Bell of Statesville, North Carolina. Nookie’s love for his family ran deep, marked by a tenderness that didn’t need to be loud to be unmistakable. He was preceded in death by his sons, Shawn Michael Bell and John Dwayne Bell, and he carried that love—unchanged and unwavering—through every season. In addition to his wife Karen, he is survived by his sons, Michael Blaine Bell of Taylorsville, North Carolina, and David Andrew Bell of Statesville, North Carolina, and by an expected 1st grandchild in July of 2026—a long-awaited joy arriving in the wake of loss, and a blessed reminder that life carries forward.
Nookie was preceded in death by his father, Wallace Leonard Bell, Sr., and his mother, Martha Elizabeth Carpenter Bell. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Judy Kay Carpenter Reid, He is survived by his brother, Wallace Leonard Bell, Jr. (Linda) of Statesville, North Carolina and by his sister, Elizabeth Ann McDaniels (Terry) of Mocksville, North Carolina
A member of Crestview Baptist Church, Nookie found his place among familiar faces and faithful rhythms. He had an easy way of being with people—ready to help, ready to listen, and just as ready to “shoot the breeze” when the moment called for it. His compassion showed up in practical ways, in the kind of everyday generosity that made others feel less alone and more supported.
He loved the simple freedoms: fishing, riding his motorcycle, and the open-air feeling of an unhurried day. And for those who knew him best, one detail will always bring him instantly to mind—Nookie, uniquely, was usually barefoot, as if he never needed anything between himself and the life he was living. There was a quiet adventurousness in that, a comfort with the world as it was, and a gentle confidence that made people smile.
A receiving of friends will be held at Crestview Baptist Church in Statesville, North Carolina, on June 5, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. A funeral service will follow at the church, beginning at 2:00 pm with Pastor Lloyd Jarvis officiating. A service of committal will take place at the church cemetery immediately following the funeral, where he will be laid to rest.
Pallbearers will be Drew Ballard, Justin Ballard, Evan Ballard, Steve Young, Mark McClure, and Kyler Fairchild.
Nookie will be remembered for the way he worked, the way he loved, and the way he made room for others—through steady hands, an open heart, and a life lived with simple, unmistakable authenticity. All who knew him will be blessed by their memories.
Condolences and messages of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com
Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home of Statesville is honored to be entrusted with the care of Nookie and his family.
