James R. Bell

Springfield – James “Jim” Robert Bell, 74, died suddenly on July 28, 2017.  He was born on April 23, 1943 in Westfield to the late Frank W. and Eileen M. (Carlin) Bell.  He graduated from Springfield Technical High School in 1961 and went on to further his education at Springfield Trade School graduating in 1963 from the Auto Mechanics program. Jim served in the Army National Guard for 6 years achieving the rank of Sergeant. His working career spanned more than 40 years beginning at Gurney’s Service Station in Springfield.  He went on to own and operate Jim Bell’s Mobil Stations in Springfield and later Redstone Automotive in East Longmeadow.  Jim developed a loyal customer base because of his reputation as an expert mechanic and trustworthy businessman.  He was a communicant of Holy Cross Church for most of his life, serving as an altar server and member of the Parish Council and School Committee.  Jim was an avid golfer and a devoted fan of Nascar, the Patriots, and the Red Sox.  More than anything else he enjoyed family dinners and time spent with his loving family.  In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his cherished daughter, Colleen M. Currier in 2017 and his stepmother, Pauline L. (Gridley) Bell.  He leaves his daughters Pamela J. Cangemi and her husband Charles, and Sara J. Scibelli and her husband Enrico all of East Longmeadow; their mother, Margaret A. (Connors) Bell; 4 grandchildren, Mary Kate, Sam, Alec, and Ben; his brother, Frank W. Bell Jr.; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved cats. Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, August 4th from 9-11AM at Forastiere Smith Funeral Home, 220 North Main St., East Longmeadow followed by a memorial service beginning at 11AM.  Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Springfield.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to D’Amour Center for Cancer Care, 280 Chestnut St. 6th Floor, Springfield, MA  01199.  For more information please visit: www.forastiere.com.

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