John Judson Bell, Navy veteran

John Judson Bell passed away Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023, at Harbor Healthcare in Lewes

He was born in Catonsville, Md., June 20, 1942, to the late John Adams Bell and Ruth Virginia (Gary) Cyford. John was a Navy veteran who served at the naval station in Norfolk, Va., and he was a graduate of Catonsville Community College and Townsend State University (BS).

John was a salesman for Firestone and then later retired from Sears Auto Company. He earned his Certificate in Discipleship and was a Sunday school teacher for First Baptist Church in New Castle.  

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 44 years, Carol (Austin) Bell. He is survived by his children, Gary Bell of Bear, and Julie Stevenson (James)  of Lewes; and two grandsons, Lucas and Levi.  

John was always quick to engage with his witty sense of humor with everyone he met. He was enthusiastic about fishing, boating and hunting. Some of his favorite moments were enjoying a Maryland crabcake with his family.  

A visitation will be held from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 8, at McCrery & Hanna Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pike (Rt. 202 South of Silverside Road), Wilmington, where a service will follow at 1:30 p.m. Burial will be in Lower Brandywine Cemetery.

To send condolences, visit mccreryandharra.com.