James Ray "JB" Bell

James Ray Bell, known fondly as "JB," passed away on November 27th, 2023, at the age of 72, in Leesburg, FL, surrounded by his cherished family. Born on January 6th, 1951 in Jamestown, TN, to Clinton Kermit and Anne Grace Bell, JB's journey was marked by his dedication to excellence and his profound love for his family. After attending Cowan High School in Muncie, IN, he pursued an education in electronic technology that became the cornerstone of his professional life. JB's early career led him to travel the globe, working in countries like Trinidad & Tobago and later in Norway, Greece, Belgium, Holland and Germany. In 1982, JB met the love of his life, Nitra, in Trinidad. After a whirlwind courtship, their love story blossomed into a treasured marriage lasting 41 years. He inherited his father’s engineering mind and drive to enhance everything within his grasp. JB was skilled in carpentry and liked when things were “just right.” He never did anything half hearted. He put his focus and attention to detail into everything he was doing, no matter how big or small the task. With a lifelong love for the outdoors, he liked to go fishing, play billiards and enjoyed movies. He was kind-hearted, humble, and eager to speak his mind. JB always approached life with a great sense of humor to the delight of those around him. JB worked as a Telecommunications Engineer at CenturyLink for over 30 years where he was often recognized for his outstanding accomplishments and received many accolades. After retiring in 2016, JB continued his love of travel, often camping and exploring many of the amazing National Parks across the USA with his beloved wife and children. JB was a fierce advocate and protector of his family. His dedication to them was unwavering, and the love and guidance he imparted will forever resonate in their lives. As a devoted father and grandfather, JB treasured every moment shared with them, especially watching his grandson grow and explore the world. His spirit lives on in the hearts of his surviving family: his cherished wife Nitra, daughters Melissa (Shaun) DiQuisto and Jamie (Robert Douglas) Bell, grandson Nolan DiQuisto, brother Michael (Suzanne) Bell, and nieces and nephews Rick Cunningham, Tammy Cunningham, Victor Dieter Eichhorn, Savannah Rains and Sebastian Bell, as well as many loved ones in Trinidad & Tobago. He is preceded in death by his parents Clinton and Anne Grace Bell, sisters Clata Jean (Victor) Eichhorn and Barbara Cunningham, and niece Tina Ramsey. A visitation will be held on Monday, December 4, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Beyers Funeral Home, 1123 W. Main St Leesburg, FL 34748 with funeral services beginning at 2:00 PM. Additionally, a second service will be conducted in Mosheim, TN, at a later date. Donations to the National Park Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Services may be livestreamed via Zoom at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82196356864?pwd=blBzdnp4Y0t0T2hNdXpBcnVWbWwvUT09 Meeting ID: 821 9635 6864 Passcode: 607895 Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home of Leesburg, Florida.

James Ray "JB" Bell

January 6, 1951 - November 27, 2023