Gene F. Bell

Mr. Gene Flenard Bell, 89, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2025, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and veteran, Gene lived a life marked by service, love and quiet strength. Born on October 8, 1935, in Columbia, Mississippi, Gene was the son of Louis Claude Bell and Edna Earl (Marshall) Bell. He grew up in Columbia and attended Marion County Training School, where he began laying the foundation for a life defined by dedication and integrity.
From an early age, Gene gave his life to the Lord. He attended Sunday School faithfully early signs of the deep faith that would guide him throughout his life. After completing High school, he attended college on a football scholarship in Mississippi, then decided on a military career and joined the Navy where he played semi pro football for the Navy. Gene proudly served in the United States Navy for 20 years, rising to the rank of First-Class Petty Officer.. His military career was distinguished by honor and commitment to duty. As a decorated serviceman, he exemplified leadership and courage deployed twice in Vietnam. Gene continued his government service by being employed as a Civil Servant and retiring (GS-12) with 40 years for dual retirement. Even after his time in uniform ended, Gene continued to carry himself with the discipline and dignity instilled during his years of service.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Gene was known for his loving nature and charismatic presence. He was a gentle giant—soft-spoken yet commanding—a man whose smile could light up a room and whose touch conveyed warmth and reassurance. He adored his wife Dottie Bell, and was a devoted father to their three daughters: Angela Bodie, Brizette Porter, and Kisha Metz (Fred). His love for his family was unwavering; he found joy in simply being with them.
Gene was an active member of his church serving in any many capacities such as usher, choir, trustee, finance committee and Men’s fellowship. He loved sports; boxing, bowling and especially football where he supported the Washington Redskins (currently the Commanders) unconditionally.

He enjoyed his weekly Friday night pinochle and was very competitive. An annual enjoyment was the Superbowl parties which were planned by their spouses & close-knit community. In addition, he was a proud member of Ruth Lodge #92, Prince Hall Mason for 49years. Gene served in many capacities. He rose to the station of Worshipful Master of Ruth Lodge.
Gene’s generosity extended far beyond his immediate family. He was a giver at heart—always ready to lend a helping hand or offer guidance when needed. He served as a mentor and confidante to three cherished men (Tony Forbes, Leando Gabriel Jr. (Gabe), Billy (Pete) Peters who looked up to him as a source of wisdom and strength & father like figure. In his leisure time, Gene found happiness on the golf course, a pastime that allowed him moments of peace and reflection. But above all else, he loved spending time with family. Whether gathered around the dinner table or enjoying quiet moments together, those times were most precious to him.

He is preceded in death by his parents Louis Claude Bell and Edna Earl Bell; brothers Claude Louis (CL) Bell & Sam Bell; grandson Joshua Bodie; great granddaughter Khole. Gene Bell leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, faithfulness, and love—a legacy that will live on through all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing and inspiration to those who carry forward his example of grace and generosity.
Gene is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Rosalyn (Dottie) Bell; children, Angela Bodie, Brizette Porter, and Kisha Metz (Peter); grandchildren Jarmel Bell (Bridgette), Veronica Bell, Marcus Porter II (Jasmine), Asia Porter, Paris Porter, Maleek Metz, Malcolm Metz; great grandchildren Khaaliyah Bell, Kelis Bell, Kayden Bell, Kenon Bell, Serenity, Malina, Kyson, Mila and Jream; siblings, Carolyn Jennings (Bert), Marshall Bell (Kinlock), Sonja Spates, Diane Brown, Don Bell (Clarice); god daughter, Kimberly Jenkins (Harry); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law, brothers in-law and close friends that will miss him dearly, as will his church family St. Mark AME church, who admired his
devoted service and steadfast faith.