David J. Bell

| September 11, 2018

Reverend David J. Bell entered into the gates of heaven on Saturday, September 8, 2018.

He died peacefully surrounded by loved ones in his home after a battle with ALS. He spent a full life sharing the love of Jesus Christ through word and actions helping those around him.

Dave was born November 17, 1948, into a loving family created by Deane and Betty Bell on a farm in Franklin, PA. After graduation from Rocky Grove High School in 1966, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Before leaving for the Vietnam War, David eloped with the love of his life, Kathryn Ann Henderson and married her on June 28, 1968. Exactly fifty years of loving and devoted marriage followed.

In his very full life, David went on to receive a Bachelor and Master of Divinity degrees from Asbury College and Seminary. He pastored at Fuoss Mills Christian Missionary Alliance, Faith Country Chapel in New Castle, planted a new church in Erie, PA, and most recently pastored at the First United Brethren Church in New Castle since 1990.

Pastor Bell’s love for people has been evident through his whole life. He sponsored refugees from the communist regimes in Vietnam and Romania who he invited to live with his family. He was an active leader in His Hands ministry, building ramps and making needed home improvements. He served as a chaplain for the New Castle Police Department and volunteered with the local Honor Guard.

David is survived by his wife Ann; his son Daniel and Stefanie Bell of Hermitage; his daughters Leigh and Marc Kamarec of Cranberry Township, Ann Marie Jarrett of New Castle and Carrie and Ron Lyons of New Castle; ten grandchildren, Madison, Aleyce, Lauren, Marlee, Natalie, Katie, Olivia, Cole, Maya and Danner.

He is also survived by siblings; Larry and Elaine Bell of Franklin, Judy Swartzfager of Cochranton, Bob Rodemoyer of Franklin, Cheryl and Bill Coon of Franklin, Bob and Karen Bell of Jackson Center, Deana and Steve Clulow of Cochranton, Jeff and Brenda Bell of Franklin, Frank and Christine Bell of Franklin, and Betsy and Eric Cochran of Franklin.

Waiting for him in heaven are his parents, Deanne and Betty Bell; his sister, Vicki Rodemoyer; and his brother, Steven Bell.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 11, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m at First United Brethren Church, 1900 Eastbrook Road, New Castle, PA.

A funeral service will take place immediately following visitation Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at the church with the Rev. Steve Clulow officiating. Burial will be in Franklin Cemetery in Franklin, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association, PO Box 37022, Boone, IA 50037-0022 or by visiting www.alsa.org.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.


Copyright © 2024 EYT Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Any copying, redistribution or retransmission of the contents of this service without the express written consent of EYT Media Group, Inc. is expressly prohibited.

Category: Obituaries