Ralph Bell

Marion- Ralph Bell, 86, of Marion, passed away at 8:20 AM, Thursday, May 8, 2008 at his home in Marion. Ralph was born on December 8, 1921 in Thompsonville to Charles & Maggie (Beers) Bell. He married Genevieve Newton on August 30, 1924 in Cape Girardeau, MO. She preceded him in death on April 26, 1986. Mr. Bell proudly served his country in the US Army during WWII from October 1942 until December 1945. He was stationed for two years and two months in Panama and seven months in India. Once honorably discharged, he worked thirty seven years as a coal miner prior to his retirement. In his spare time he enjoyed collecting guns and knives, feeding his humming birds and going to auctions. He was a member of Mt. Moriah General Baptist Church in Creal Springs and the Veteran of Foreign Wars in Marion. Ralph also belonged to the United Mine Workers of America and the National Rifle Association. Survivors include- Son & daughter in law- Charles & Joyce Bell of Marion Daughter & son in law- Carol & Eddie Mitchell of Marion Grandchildren- Kevin Bell of Nashville, TN Lana Bell of Marion Step-grandson- Shawn Mitchell of Goreville Several nieces & nephews He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two brothers- Wayman & Raymond Bell, three sisters- Amy Bell, Pearl Bridges & Ann Curry. The funeral service will be held at 1:30 PM, Sunday, May 11, 2008 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion. Rev. Shorty Alsip will officiate. Burial will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery. Military rites will be provided by the Marion VFW & American Legion Posts. Visitation will be from 5-8:00 PM, Saturday, May 10, 2008 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at the funeral home/ 800 N. Market/ Marion, IL 62959.