James Lee Bell, a life-long resident of the Walton area, died at home with his family on Sunday, September 18, 2016. Jim was born in Delhi, New York, the eighth child of Augustus Nicholas and Lavanda Alice (Bullis) Bell on November 23, 1937.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, as well as his siblings and their spouses, Douglas (Margaret) Bell, Richard (Ethel) Murdoch, Norma Jean (John Stanton) Bell, Dorothy Bell, Ronald (Ann) Bell, Charlotte (Robert) Berry, and Edwin Bell.

Jim is survived by Katherine L. (Finch) Bell, his wife of nearly 60 years, with whom he shared the home they built on Lower Third Brook Road in Walton, New York. Also left behind are his son and daughter, James L. Bell, Jr. (David Abbott,) and Brenda L. Northrup (Patrick Henchey;) grandchildren Amber Northrup (Fred Haynes,) and Jessica (Micah) Casey; great-grand children Brayton Northrup, Breanna Casey, Aidan Haynes, Micah Casey, Jr., and Waylon James Casey. Jim was the brother-in-law of Jane Bell, Barbara (George) Beardsley, Dorothy (Lyle) Daniels, Agnes (Frank Crawford) Carson, Nettie (Edward) Kelly, Jeannette (Arthur) Cash, Margaret (Ronald) Cammer, LaVerne (Grace) Finch and Carol (Gary) Gregory, all of whom meant the world to him. Additionally, Jim leaves behind over sixty neices and nephews and their families.

There were many hats Jim wore throughout his life. He was a construction worker for Tweedie Construction, a furniture builder for S. J. Bailey, a supervisor for Breakstone Dairy, made wheel covers for DelMet, a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service, and worked in Production for DMV Nutritionals in Frazer, NY. In addition to his regular work week, he always had a side job going, whether it be a quarryman, mason, roofer or carpenter. There was little he wouldn't tackle, and no one he would refuse to help.

As hard as he worked, Jim was equally enthusiastic about sports and having good times with his family and friends. He loved to go bowling, hunting and fishing, and playing baseball and rounds of golf. He often attended the football games in support of his alma matter, Walton Central School. Jim was always up for a good card game or to grab a beer with friends. He met his friends at T.A.'s Place every morning for coffee.

Football was one of Jim's greatest passions. Jim and his friends Ron McAdams, John Elderkin, and Neil Bartlett founded the Small Fry football league, at which he coached Jets. He loved watching the kids develop their own love of the game.

Jim was an active member of the Walton Fire Department from the 1950s through his retirement, when he continued as an honorary member. Jim was a long-time member of the Elks, and the Club Royal. Jim was a graduate of Walton High school class of 1955, and attended Oneonta State University, and SUNY @ Delhi.

A special word of thanks goes out to the family, friends and also to the staff at Catskill Area Hospice, who were so very kind in their support during these last difficult months. The comradery and cheerful companionship will forever be appreciated. Jim's family is profoundly grateful to each and every one of you.

Burial and a graveside service will be held on Friday, September 23 at 1:00 PM in the Walton Cemetery. Friends and relatives are invited to attend. There will be a simple gathering to share memories following the service. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are encouraged to donate to Catskill Area Hospice, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, New York 13820.