J. William Sr. Bell

Charlottesville, Va. - J. William (Bill) Bell Sr., 98, passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 24, 2010, in Charlottesville, Virginia at the home of his son, Jim and his wife, Maria. He was born February 1, 1912, in Birmingham, Alabama, the son of Walter A. Bell and Bertha Summers Bell. Bill and his late wife, Margaret, moved to Charlottesville from Asheville, N.C in January, 2005, to be near Jim and Maria. He was a long-time member of Calvary Baptist Church in Asheville, where he served on the Board of Deacons. He retired in 1977 after 52 years with Southern Railway. While with Southern Railway, he was a member of the Brotherhood of Railway Clerks and was the local union's delegate to the national convention for many years. He was named an honorary delegate after his retirement. He was also an active member of Lion's Club International for many years. After his retirement, in addition to playing countless rounds of golf, he was a volunteer driver for the American Red Cross. Bill is survived by his son, James William Bell Jr. and his wife, Maria, of Charlottesville. He is also survived by his sister, Annie Lou Logan of Winter Park, Fla.; his brother, Charles S. Bell and his wife, Jo, of Greenville, S.C.; his sister-in-law, Lucile M. Blackwell of Spartanburg, S.C.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 68 years Margaret; his brother, Walter; and his sister, Pauline. Bill's family wishes to thank the staff at Branchlands apartments for their thoughtful service during his time there. Also, the family thanks Legacy Hospice for their care during Bill's last days. Most importantly Jim and Maria cannot begin to thank enough Shirley Smith and, especially, Kimberly Blakey for the gentle, loving care they provided. A Memorial Graveside Service will be held 11 AM Saturday, June 5, 2010 at Green Hills Cemetery with the Rev. Dr. Buddy Corbin, CarePartner's Hospice Chaplain. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to Legacy Hospice, 675 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 180, Charlottesville, Virginia 22911 or any other charity of your choice. Anders-Rice Funeral Home is assisting the family.