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Edward Janes Bell, III

Date of Death: November 26, 2020
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Kate & Murray Shantz
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Heidi Singhas
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Tony Mayo
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Service

Services will be announced at a later date

Memorial

Memorial contributions may be made to:

Blue Ridge Hospice
333 W. Cork Street
Suite 405
Winchester, Virginia 22601

Adult Care Center of the Northern Shenandoah Valley
411 North Cameron Street
Winchester, Virginia 22601

Edward J. Bell III   Intellectual, rider of roller coasters, avid reader, poet, artist, shirtless jogger and conversationalist. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all, Edward Bell (Ed to some, Papa to most) passed peacefully early Thanksgiving morning, November 26, 2020. An attorney and Air Force Veteran (Ret. Colonel), Graduate of Harvard (English), MichiganContinue Reading

Col Joe Guirreri left a message on August 4, 2021:
Deepest condolences to the family. Col Ed Bell was a great boss, mentor and friend. I worked for him at the Air Force Data Systems Design Center (AFDSDC) Gunter AFS, Montgomery AL and as his Executive Officer at HQ Air Force Communications Command (AFCC), Scott AFB, IL. He was the most intelligent Air Force officer that I have known. He had an insight into history and government that was amazing. When we traveled to Washington DC for business he would always make sure that we stopped by the Archives to makes sure the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were still safely in place. When we were stationed at Scott AFB he even tried to teach me how to play racquetball. He was good. He had great foresight. He knew that computer security was going to become a major issue. He helped me see a career path in that both in the AF and later in a government contracting career. It was great to have dinner with him a few years back here in VA. He was a great boss and a great friend. Col Ed Bell, I salute you.
Brent Dougal left a message on June 23, 2021:
I have a great love and appreciation for Ed and Meredith. Ed was my legal skills professor at W&M, but also a friend. My oldest daughter and Papa Bell even wrote letters to each other after we moved from Williamsburg. Ed and Meredith shared a great kindness to us as struggling college kids with a young family that we will never forget and will always be thankful for. I also want to thank the family for letting us know of Ed's passing. I apologize that we miss placed the letter and so have not been able to reach out personally to thank you.
Kenneth Montero left a message on January 3, 2021:
Ed served with distinction as as law clerk in the Court Legal System Assistance Project in the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court of Virginia after graduation from law school, and he was highly respected for both the excellent quality of his work and his character as a law clerk. As Director of Legal Research, I valued Ed as a friend, law clerk and confidant. Subsequently,our paths crossed all too infrequently, but it always was as joy when they did . To Ed's family, please accept my condolences.
Jessica Drawdy left a message on December 14, 2020:
The news of Papa’s passing brought on a huge lump in my throat and an empty feeling for days... knowing how much he was loved by many, his presence will be greatly missed. The fondest memories include many spur of the moment chats that interrupted his runs.. he swore they were always welcome. Breakfast chats at Papermill and the many afternoons spent chatting on the stoop while we watched his grandkids roller blade and ride bikes. Though the last few years the chats were fewer it was always easy to pick up on a whim- Thanks for being that extended family during my college years and beyond. Always admired and full of great conversation... one voice that I’ll never forget. ❤️
Carol Pitts left a message on December 12, 2020:
May the Lord hold you all in His loving hands and give you comfort. Rest in Peace Mr Bell .
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Tricia Karppi left a message on December 11, 2020:
Dear Bell Family — I am sending my deepest heartfelt condolences on the death of your Dad. I was privileged to have spent much time with your parents when they could come to visit Jen at college and for those years that Jen and I were in DC together, Your Dad was so kind-hearted, with his warm yet devilish smile always made me feel like I would be successful, and that I could manage anything. He made me smile, made me think but most of all he loved and nurtured me as if I was his fifth child! I do hope that I can share in the celebration of his inspiring life — he will be truly missed but the memory of a true intellectual gentleman will endure. Love to you all —Tricia
Kate & Murray Shantz left a message on December 10, 2020:
The day we moved to Winchester, Ed jogged by our new home and stopped to welcome us. It became a ritual that grew when we met his nearby family, and saw him at First Pres. He was a truly fine man that prevailed even through regular exposure to the Tuesday Chic Breakfast Club where he was a totally unique participant: he thought before speaking. Thanks for dropping by - - -You will be missed. Kate & Murray Shantz
Kristi & Dave Yarnall left a message on December 7, 2020:
Our sincerest condolences to all the family! We definitely knew him as Papa and loved the opportunity to visit a bit with your family in Duck, NC during many summers. Always welcoming and loved our chats hanging out on the beach. And yes, we can attest to shirtless jogging. A beautifully written obituary that describes him so well. Love to you all! Kristi & Dave
Nicole Sergent left a message on December 6, 2020:
Mr. Ed was a constant smiler in our church community. My teenage daughters enjoyed his presence in THEIR Sunday School classes and I loved that he knew that they needed him right there. Our family feels fortunate to witness such an example of God's love in his peaceful and kind presence. May peace overcome your family as you grieve and celebrate a life lived with such grace.
Willie & Joyce Umbenour left a message on December 5, 2020:
We are so Blessed that God let our paths cross. Mr. Ed was such a kind soul. His contagious smile would light a room. We both enjoyed his company, the talks, walks, and rides especially the Western Maryland ride that we went on in October 2017. He will be deeply missed. Rest In Peace.
Heidi Singhas left a message on December 5, 2020:
In memory of Edward Janes Bell, III, Heidi Singhas lit a candle
michael head left a message on December 5, 2020:
Ed was a First Class human being. I am privileged to have known him.
Dave and Jeanne Moore left a message on December 5, 2020:
Wonderful friend, fine Christian gentleman. A memorable trip to Scotland with him.
Beth Coyne left a message on December 5, 2020:
So sorry to hear about Ed’s passing. What a kind man and a caring lawyer who served his young clients as guardian ad litem with understanding and empathy. It was my pleasure to be involved with Ed on several of his cases. He will be missed.
David left a message on December 4, 2020:
I met Col. Bell at First Presbyterian Church and the Military Officers Association of America, where we served on committees to benefit all active and retired members of the Military. Ed was active in the Tuesday Coffee Club at Chick- Filet and the Church's Third Saturday Breakfast at Perkins. Ed was an inspiration to all he met. Prayers to his children and grandchildren of whom he was most proud of their accomplishments.
Caldwell left a message on December 4, 2020:
Ed Bell was a wonderful man and I know he has found peace in the arms of his lord and savior. We had the pleasure of having Ed in our lives through First Pres and thoughts of him always bring a smile. We never met his wife but his eyes almost always became glassy with tears when he mentioned her, what a love they must of shared. Prayers and Blessings to his children and grandchildren who he often praised and loved so very much.
Mark Metivier left a message on December 4, 2020:
I had the pleasure of getting to know Ed at the VH Wellness Center. He was a friend and a sincerely nice person to everyone he met. Always with a smile and a positive comment! He was a bright spot in everyones day. After several years I once met him relaxing in the Gym lounge after a workout. I asked him a question about his life and over an hour later he said with a smile, "that is probably way more than you wanted to know?!" I could easily have listened for another hour! What a wonderful person and a life well lived. Thank you Ed for your friendship and smile...
Tony Mayo left a message on December 4, 2020:
In memory of Edward Janes Bell, III, Tony Mayo lit a candle
Larry Shepherd left a message on December 4, 2020:
Met Ed on several occasions with my dad, Tom. He was very kind and thoughtful to me. Good company. Bless him.
Toni Caggiano left a message on December 2, 2020:
Ed departing this life leaves such an empty space. For the family my deepest sympathy and prayers. For me losing this dear man is a blow. Our friendship is a treasure for me. Ed lived his faith in every way and moment. I learned so much from him and I'll miss him so. With love Toni
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Johanna Montgomery Bell left a message on December 1, 2020:
In memory of my BIG hearted Uncle Ed, who was an artist in addition to so many other accomplishments. This painting was by Ed and middle brother, my dad, Maury in 1943. Much gratitude and love for all of the three Bell boys, Ed, Maury, and Bob. Long may those Three Musketeers roam in our collective kingdoms and memories! Tally ho!
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Guy j. Kite left a message on December 1, 2020:
To the bell family. So sorry to hear of ed passing. I first met him 10 years ago at first Presbyterian church. In our conversations I found out he lived in the same town I lived in as a youngster. I lived on Fairfax from 13 to 30. I was born and raised in the northern va area. I moved to Winchester 30 years ago. He was a kind likeable person. He was a vet I say thank you to him. May God bless you and keep you safe. I
John Miller left a message on December 1, 2020:
Mr. Bell, Thank you so much for the last 4 going on 5 years of time spent together. You changed my life in more ways than you will ever know. I was privileged to be your friend and caregiver. I never will forget the stories and good times we had together. I will always tell people about you and how you blessed my life. It was an honor to be by your side the last few moments of your life early Thanksgiving morning. I know you’re at peace now. I’m not sure whether or not you liked Jimmy Buffet, but I know you are having a “cheeseburger in paradise.” RIP until we meet again. Love, John
Omps Funeral Home left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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