James Jackson Bell

James J. Bell of Horton, MI entered into eternal life on Monday, March 30, 2020 at age 83.  He died of natural causes with family by his side.  Jim was born on July 27, 1936, the oldest of seven children.  James is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Jo Bell; two children, Julie (Jeff) Alexander and Robert (Sharon) Bell; grandchildren Andrew Alexander, Adam Alexander (fiance Teresa Galloway), Jared Alexander, Anna Alexander (fiance Brady Ferris), Tyler (Tiffany) Haywood, Dustin (Allison) Haywood, and several great-grandchildren; surviving sisters, Joanne Coon and Margaret Schultz; brother, Clyde Bell; and many nieces and nephews all of Saginaw.  He was preceded in death by his infant son, James R. Bell; grandchild Amy Jo Alexander; his parents Clyde and Lota Bell; and sisters Judy Robinson, Lota Cholcher and Sue Slagle.

Jim and Mary Jo met in 1954 during his senior year at Saginaw High School.  They were married on May 2, 1959.  Jim graduated from Saginaw High School and Sienna Heights College.  He served in the United States Marine Corp for two years.  Jim’s professional career with Consumers Power started in 1957 in Saginaw, followed by a transfer in 1969 to Big Rock Nuclear Plant in Charlevoix. In 1972 he relocated to CP headquarters in Jackson until his retirement in 1992.  Jim was a long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Jackson and served on various boards over the years. 

Jim loved his family and church.  His favorite pastimes were reading and deer hunting with excursions taking him to several states.  His most cherished spot was on his land in the back of his home where many deer were harvested.

The family would like to thank the many Jackson physicians who tended to him with care and compassion over the years as Jim was confronted with many health challenges including Dr. Michael Burgess, Dr. Mark Zande, Dr. David Halsey, and Dr. Paul Kenyon.  Although it was only a short stay, our thanks to Dr. Jon Lake and the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home.

His Celebration of Life Memorial Service will take place on Monday, July 27, 2020 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 122 W. Wesley Street, Jackson, MI.  The service will begin at 11:00 AM with Pastor Kurt Lambart officiating.  There will be visitation beginning at 10:00 AM in the church courtyard.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church. 

“This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24). 

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