With great sorrow, we announce the passing of Joshua Lee Bell. Born on April 25, 1982, in Gary, Indiana, who left us too soon on March 27, 2024. A compassionate soul, Joshua was known as a loving father, companionate friend, and a loyal bother. Residing in Covington, Kentucky as a bus driver at TANK in commercial transportation. He was a beacon of laughter, always ready with a funny comment to lighten the atmosphere “Good morning family, Rise and Shine” and his favorite words – “Yah, Yah, Yah…” and “What up doe my peeps”. A generous heart, Joshua was always ready to lend a hand to those in need. His dedication to his work was only surpassed by his love for his children, whom he cherished above all else. Joshua lived a life full of joy, passion, and commitment. He had a deep love for basketball and found solace in the quietude of grilling and fishing. His curiosity led him to be an avid reader, always ready to learn something new. His love for his children was steadfast and unwavering. He was inspiring, loyal, reliable, smart, direct, and honest, qualities that endeared him to all who knew him. As we remember Joshua, we recall a verse from the Bible that speaks to his spirit, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).
Joshua is survived by his mother, Ruth Bell; siblings Lotisa (Stanley) Scott, Roosevelt (Yolanda) Bell, Sharita Walton; his beloved children, Nina, Joshua Jr. and Lyiah Bell; Seven nieces and nephews and three great nieces and nephews; a host of cousins and friends; uncles, James and Harry (Maxine) Bell; Great Aunt Shirley Richardson. His loving girlfriend, Regina Hill; Mentors Elijah Burton, Floyd Taylor and Decan Harold Patterson; Best friend J.P., and special friends Briana Dortch, Brittani Haynes, Carlos Robinson, W.D., Kelly Wesson, Sheila Lipkins, Jim and Faye Lipkins.
Joshua was preceded in death by his father, Vincent Thomas; his great-grandmother, Willie Mae Grahms; his grandparents, Ruth and Harry Bell; and his uncle, Ronnie Bell, and his God Mother Pauline Lipkins. Great uncles Johnnie Richardson and Bennie Albert.
A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 11:00am EDT at the Mt. Zion Cathedral of Praise, 1102 North Redbud Trail, Buchanan, Michigan, 49107.
His life was a testament to his strength and perseverance, and his memory will forever be engraved in our hearts. We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Joshua on his memorial page, to honor his legacy and celebrate the remarkable life he lived. His spirit lives on in each of us who had the privilege to know him.