In Loving Memory of Thomas "Tommy" "Tony" Bell
April 21, 1938 – June 19, 2026

On Thursday, April 21, 1938, Thomas Bell was born in the small town of Springhill, Alabama, to the late Jacob Bell Sr. and Margaret Littleton Bell. In 1940, the Bell family relocated to Covington, Kentucky, where Thomas was raised alongside his seven siblings. It was there that he accepted Jesus Christ and developed a lifelong faith that would guide him throughout his life.

Affectionately known as "Tommy" during his youth, Thomas was the third of eight children. An athletic young man, he loved playing sports and developed a lifelong passion for athletics. He was an avid sports fan who could often be found carrying the sports section of the local newspaper in his back pocket, always ready to challenge family and friends with discussions about scores, statistics, and the greatest players of the day.

While attending Lincoln Grant High School, Thomas realized he wanted to experience more of the world than what his neighborhood could offer. With determination and the blessing of his father, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He proudly served his country for four years, traveling throughout the Pacific. Reflecting on those experiences, he would often smile and say, "Not bad for a country boy.

"During a leave while stationed in California, Thomas was introduced to and fell in love with Daisy Mae Stepherson. Their love blossomed into marriage, and together they built a beautiful family, welcoming six children—two daughters and four sons—including a set of fraternal twins, much to Thomas's delight and surprise.

Following his honorable service in the Navy, Thomas attended Los Angeles Trade Technical College, where he earned a degree in Carpentry. He enjoyed a successful career spanning more than 30 years as a skilled carpenter. He found great satisfaction in building, repairing, and maintaining homes and was always willing to lend his talents to family, friends, and neighbors. Whether remodeling his own home or helping someone else complete a project, Thomas took pride in working with his hands.

Outside of work, Thomas enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He loved watching sports and classic Western movies—often on repeat—reading—books in every room—, listening to music, bowling, telling jokes and stories (whether fact or fiction was often left for the listener to decide), and, most importantly, spending time with his family at the amusements parks, competing in foot races up & down the streets, playing a board games or DAD’s passion of just simply sitting around telling stories & jokes.

Bowling was one of his greatest passions, and he excelled in the sport. His enthusiasm for bowling became a family tradition, inspiring several of his children and grandchildren to take up the game. Throughout the local bowling leagues, Tony became known not only for his skill on the lanes but also for his infectious humor. He had a remarkable gift for making people laugh, and no bowling night was complete without one of Tony's jokes or entertaining stories.

No matter where he went, Thomas found joy in helping others and making them smile. Whether you knew him as Thomas, Tommy, Tony, Mr. Bell, or simply DAD, chances are you remember one of his jokes, one of his stories, or the laughter he brought into your life. 

Above all else, Thomas was a teacher by example. He instilled in his children, neighborhood youth, and anyone willing to listen the importance of believing in God, pursuing an education, learning a trade, working hard, treating others with kindness, helping those in need, and never forgetting that "Laughing is good for the Soul. 

"On June 19, 2026, Thomas Bell peacefully answered the Lord's call and entered into eternal rest. He leaves to cherish his loving memory his children: Michael Bell (Carol) of Tracy, CA; Gregory Bell (Darlene) of Long Beach, CA; Lawrence Bell Sr.(twin #1) (Jessica) of Las Vegas, Nevada; Lisa Bell(twin #2) of Houston, TX ; and Eric Bell of Phoenix, AZ. He is also survived by his sister, Margaret Obasi of Kentucky; his brother, Jacob Bell Jr. of Kentucky; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents Jacob Sr and Margaret Littleton Bell, Thomas was preceded in death by his children’s mother and lifelong friend Daisy Mae Bell; his first born Michelle D. Bell; sisters Corrine Campbell, Lucille Jennings, Mary “Doll” Harvey, Rebecca “Rae” George, and brother William Bell.

Although his physical presence will be deeply missed, the laughter he shared, the wisdom he imparted, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

"Laughing is good for the Soul." Those words were more than a saying to Thomas “DAD” Bell—they were the way he lived his life, and they remain part of the beautiful legacy he leaves behind.