George Robert Bell

George Robert Bell, a beloved family man, veteran, and lifelong lover of life’s simple pleasures, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, at the age of 86. Born in Salisbury, North Carolina, on June 21, 1939, George was the son of late William Taft Bell and Anne Elmira Sink Bell.

Survivors are his loving wife of 34 years, Dolores Irene "Pokey" Bell, his daughter, Melissa Dee Bell Cornett; his sons; George Robert Bell, Jr., and William Frederick Bell (Ursula); his only grandchild and apple of his eye, Megan DyAnne Cornett. He is also survived by his older sister; Frances Anne Bell Simms of Arlington, Va. and a host of nieces and nephews who will all remember his thoughtfulness, playful spirit, and the countless memories he created. He is predeceased by his stepson, John Emerson Goggin, Jr.

He graduated from Whitmell Farm Life High School in Dry Fork, Virginia, where he played baseball and basketball. It was there that he earned the nickname "Shotgun" for his impressive shooting abilities. George went on to attend Averett College, furthering his education and experiences.

He proudly served in the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War, stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia, and in Hawaii.

George had a long and dedicated career at Dan River Mills, serving as a supervisor for over 40 years, where he was respected for his attention to detail, leadership, work ethic, and commitment to his team. George never met a stranger and was always a man of his word, known for his clever quick wit, reliability, and strong moral character. George dedicated 50 years as a sports official calling unmeasurable games of football, baseball, softball, basketball, and volleyball, impacting countless athletes and sporting events with his integrity and passion for the game.

Outside of games, George found joy in the everyday: family, going fishing, running his beloved beagles, caring for his free-range chickens and Guinea fowl, and participating in field trials. He was a member of the Mt.Valley Beagle Club.

A celebration of George’s life was held at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 3:30 PM. George’s final resting place will be in Salisbury, North Carolina, at the family burial plot at Chestnut Hill at a later date.