Paul J. Bell

Paul J. Bell, Jr., 86, of Albemarle, passed away Thursday, April 24 at home surrounded by his family. He was born May 7, 1938 in Miami, Florida to the late Paul Jay and Eva Mae Bell. He was preceded in death by his youngest daughter, Jennifer Paige Bell Cody, and also his sisters, Mona, Donna Kay, and brother, Jimmy.

Paul began his ministry in the United Methodist Church as a student pastor in 1965. He was ordained an elder in 1969. Bishop L. Scott Allen granted his transfer into the Western North Carolina Conference in 1980. His ministry can be summarized with three characteristics: He strongly believed in the Articles of Faith. Second, early in ministry, he adopted the practice that Bishop William Cannon gave to all his ministers: “Go where you’re sent and serve your best.” Thirdly, he always concluded his worship services with an invitation to Christian discipleship.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Donna Jean Bell of Albemarle; daughters, Pam (Mitch) Knighten of New London and Karen (Charles) Herlocker of Albemarle; grandchildren, Emma (Jerrod) Coley, Mason Knighten, Austin Herlocker (Caitlin McAlhany), Carter (Kayla) Knighten, Trey Knighten, and Jax Herlocker; great-grandson, James Michael Coley; sister, Barbara Graham of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Sunday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m. at Oak Grove Methodist Church, Mount Pleasant.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Salvation Army for the Paul and Jean Bell Scholarship in memory of Jennifer Paige, P.O. Box 511, Concord, NC 28026.