Deacon James Alonzo Bell, Sr., was born on July 8, 1933 in Wilmington, Delaware to William
Arthur and Anna Beatrice Bell. He passed peacefully on November 19, 2020 in Tampa,
Florida at the age of 87. James was educated in the Wilmington, Delaware school system and in
1952, he graduated from Howard High School where he was known as 'Bull Bell' for running
over his opponents on the football field. Following high school, he enlisted in the United
States Army and served as a Military Police Officer.

In 1959, James married the love of his life, Frances Ann Cooper. At the time of his passing
they had been married for 61 years and 10 months, honoring his vow of 'Until death do us
part'. Affectionately known as 'Pablo' to his family, the couple shared three children,
Credella 'Voni', James, Jr., and Glynis. The couple also had a special son Alan.

The 7th born of 10 children, James lived an eventful life and was a joy to be around. He had a
passion for giving and raising his family. Pablo loved spending time with his children and
grandchildren. He enjoyed attending their school activities, watching the children play,
sneaking them snacks, and making lots of noise with them! Pablo was especially proud of the
college graduations of Jonathan, James, III, and Dr. Lurleen. Over the years, he was known for
his cooking, especially homemade donuts, coleslaw, sweet potato pies, lemon meringue pies,
and fried oysters. He also loved decorating for the holidays, making sure that all of the houses
in the family had holiday decor. Most of all, Pablo instilled in his family the importance of
keeping God first in your life, maintaining a prayer life, and showing love to everyone.

James was an accomplished self-employed plumber. He later received his certification as a
pipefitter through Chrysler Motor Training Center. At his time of certification, he was the only
Black person to complete the series of classes and earn his credential in the trade. After
working for more than 30 years, he retired from Chrysler Corporation in 2000.

James accepted Christ early in his life and had been ordained as a Deacon of Tabernacle
Baptist Church in Wilmington, DE. At the time of his departure, James was a dedicated
member of the First Baptist Church of College Hill in Tampa, FL. James had a great sense of
humor and showed compassion to all. He will be remembered as a true friend, a pioneer in his
industry, a hard-working provider, and a hero of a father.

In addition to his parents William and Anna Bell, James is preceded in death by his brothers
William Mowbray, Lawrence Mowbray, Harry White, Lewis Bell, Ellis Delano, Robert Bell,
Warren Mowbray, and Norman Mowbray.

The precious memories of James Alonzo Bell, Sr. will be forever cherished by his wife of
almost 62 years Frances Ann Bell; children Credella Hart of Tampa, FL, James A. Bell, Jr.
(Annie) of Newark, DE, and Glynis Deedon (Rudolph) of Wilmington, DE, and special son,
Alan Brown (Sylvia) of New Castle, DE; Sister, Rev., Dr. Etta Robertson of Wilmington, DE;
Grandchildren Dr. Lurleen Black, James Bell, III, Jonathan Bell, Shana Trader, and Sean
Trader; Great-grandchildren Jelani Bryant, Jared Bryant, Jameson Bryant, Keyon, Tootie and
additional great-grandchildren; special nieces Norma Sudler and Beverley Brown; close cousin
Diane Edwards, God-daughters Reese Michelle and Dana Black; close friends Otis Brit and
Laker Laker; and a host of family and friends. The visitation will be held at the First Baptist Church of College Hill at 9:00 a.m. The family and friends are asked to meet at the church for the service. We are following the CDC guidelines.

At the family's request, the live-stream has beencancelled.


Viewing
First Baptist Church of College Hill
Friday, December 4, 2020
09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
3838 N. 29th St
Tampa, FL 33610

Funeral Service
First Baptist Church of College Hill
Friday, December 4, 2020
10:00 AM
3838 N. 29th St
Tampa, FL 33610