James Michael Bell

James Michael "Jimmy" "Skeeter" Bell, 60, of Bessemer City, North Carolina, entered into the presence of his Savior on May 6, 2026. Born on December 5, 1965, Jimmy lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering faith, devoted service, and deep love for those he held close.

Jimmy was a faithful member of Grace Baptist Church in Gastonia for more than 30 years, where he faithfully served the Lord and his church family. He was especially passionate about investing in the lives of young people through the church children's ministry and previously served as a Deacon. His faith was not merely something he professed, but something he lived daily through humility, kindness, steadfastness, and service to others. In his final moments, Jimmy expressed peace and assurance, sharing that he was ready to "go Home," confident in the eternity that awaited him through his faith in Jesus Christ.

One of the greatest loves of Jimmy's life was his beloved wife, Barbara Lynn Bell, who preceded him in death on February 7, 2025. Losing Barbara left a tremendous void in his heart, but Jimmy held tightly to the promise that they would one day be reunited again in Heaven. Their love and devotion to one another remained evident to everyone who knew them.

Jimmy was a man of few words who found joy in life's simple blessings. He enjoyed camping, building props for Halloween displays, and creating special decorations and projects for church events. He took pride in hard work and faithfully worked as a welder for Precision Machine Products in Gastonia until illness forced his retirement in December 2025. Jimmy was also deeply patriotic and proud to be an American. To those fortunate enough to know him personally, Jimmy was dependable, genuine, and deeply loved. Though quiet by nature, his actions spoke volumes. He loved fiercely, served faithfully, and remained loyal to those he considered family.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved step-children, Shannon Tate (Krissy) and Angel Tate (Oliver); his treasured grandchildren, Brandan Tate (Diane), Alex Tate (Victoria), Destiny Gonzalez, Mitchell Johnson, Taylor Johnson, and Traic Johnson (Aaliyah); and his adored great-grandchildren, Shiloh, Eden, Jayden, Adyline, Ziva, Soren, and Zure. Jimmy is also survived by his sister, Sue Chandler, affectionately known as "Momma Sue"; sisters Sybil Williams and Jean Ghorley; and two nephews whom he loved as brothers and was raised alongside Brian Chandler (Ronda) and Randy Chandler (Tina). The family would also like to extend special recognition and heartfelt gratitude to Tracie Horne, a dear friend and fellow servant in the children's ministry at Grace Baptist Church, whose love, friendship, and faithful support brought tremendous comfort and encouragement to Jimmy following Barbara's passing and throughout his final days. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Bell; sisters Joanne Mahue, Debbie McSwain, and his beloved twin sister, Janey Bell, with whom he shared an especially close bond; and by his brother-in-law, Robert Chandler, who lovingly helped raise Jimmy as a father figure and whom Jimmy proudly called "Dad." Jimmy also leaves behind his faithful companion, Sadie, who was far more than a pet - she was family. In his final moments, one of his last requests was to tell Sadie that he loved her.

A Celebration of Life honoring Jimmy's life and legacy will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Grace Baptist Church, 2200 Auten Road, Gastonia, NC, officiated by Pastor David MacEachern.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grace Baptist Church Children's Department, a ministry that held a special place in Jimmy's heart.

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service. Online condolences may be made at www.greenefuneral.com.

Though Jimmy's earthly journey has ended, the impact of his faithful life, quiet strength, servant's heart, and steadfast love will continue to live on in the countless lives he touched.