Gary L. Bell

Gary L. Bell passed away on April 15, 2026 at the age of 85. He is survived by his beloved wife Geraldine, his children Christine and Michael, his son-in-law Josh, his three grandchildren Matt, Gwen and Casey, his sister Joyce, and a large extended family. He is predeceased by his parents, Elsie and Elwood, and three siblings: Joan, Jimmy and Brian. Gary was well-known for his intelligence, wit, generosity and craftsmanship; he could make anything out of anything. 

His childhood was spent in Washington, D.C., where he got into mischief with friends, watched movies at the local cinema, helped his father, and worked after school. He served his country in the United States Air Force, working as a mechanic on an aircraft carrier. Exceptionally high proficiency scores earned him a spot at the academy, but he declined that opportunity and entered the workforce — which was a good choice, because that is where he met his wife. They raised their family in Maryland then retired to Bluffton, South Carolina. 

When Gary wasn’t busy chatting with neighbors and/or building furniture (or birdhouses or patios, etc, etc), he could be found relaxing in his favorite recliner while watching tennis or golf. Special occasions were celebrated at the British Open Pub or at the Longhorn Steakhouse (where, oddly, his favorite menu item was cheesecake). He lived well, forgave easily, advised abundantly, never raised his voice, and always offered a helping hand. Right now, if goodness is justly rewarded, he’s cruising through Heaven in a 1956 Chevy — with a full head of hair, perfect hearing, and the knowledge that he was (and will always be) appreciated and loved.