James Bell Obituary

James Joseph "Jim" Bell, age 79, of Pineville, Missouri, departed this on Saturday afternoon, October 11, 2025, at the McDonald County Living Center in Anderson, Missouri, after months of failing health. He entered this life on September 12, 1946, in Kansas City, Kansas, the youngest of three sons born to the late Audie Leroy and Lora Ann (Stillions) Bell.

He was raised in Pineville, Missouri and was 1966 graduate of Pineville High School. He married his soulmate, Pamela Gideon, on January 19, 1973, at Tracy Church in Anderson, Missouri. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and the blessings of a close-knit family.

Jim's professional journey was marked by dedication and a strong work ethic. Before finding his true calling, he worked as a security guard at the trailer plant in Anderson. After some persuasion by local Barber, Jack Rogers, Jim enrolled at the Missouri School of Barber and Hair Styling in Kansas City, Missouri. In 1985, Jim opened Bell's Barber Shop in Pineville, where he would remain until his well-deserved retirement.

A man of diverse interests, Jim loved old cars and motorcycles, and his collections of coins and guns were a testament to his meticulous nature and appreciation for history. He was an active member of the Southwest Missouri Beekeepers Association, where he shared his fascination with the intricate world of bees. A faithful attendee of the First Baptist Church in Pineville, Jim's faith was a cornerstone of his life.

Jim's zest for life was evident in his love for dancing and the countless hours he spent tending to his farm, a testament to his connection with the land and his rural heritage. His farm was not just a piece of land but a place where family and friends gathered, and memories were made.

Jim's legacy is carried on by his beloved wife of fifty-two years, Pamela Bell of the home; his children, Billy Bell and partner Melany Cousins of Pineville, Missouri, and Elaine Rose and her husband, John, also of Pineville. He was a cherished grandfather to seven grandchildren, Leah Leak, Madison Courtney, Breanna Rose, Joseph Rose, Skylan Bell, Colton Bell, and Elijah Crocker, and a great-grandfather to Hudson Leak. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Nelson and Rex Bell.

Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Thursday, October 16, 2025 at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri with Pastor Andrew Hobelmann officiating. Burial will follow at Howard Cemetery in Goodman, Missouri. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home chapel. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.