James Garland Bell: Loris
1943 – 2023
James Garland Bell of Loris passed away Friday, March 3. He was 79.
Born May 17, 1943 in Horry County, he was the son of the late Thurman J. Bell and the late Essie Mae McDaniel Bell.
He left behind his loving wife of 57 years, Lilly; daughters and sons-in-law Tammy Floyd (Ronnie), Sandra Griffiths (Ivor), and Karen Thompson (Shawn); grandchildren Alexandria Floyd, Micah Floyd (Madison), IsaBellea Hucks (Hunter), and Gabriella Thompson; his great grandson, Jean-Alexandre Choiniere; a brother, Arnold J. Bell (Margaret); and loving brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and friends.
He was predeceased by his brother, Thomas Aaron Bell.
James served in the United States Army Signal Corps for 20 years as an Antenna Team Chief and retired in 1980. He served tours in Vietnam and was subsequently awarded the Bronze Star. His service included tours in seventeen countries. In addition to receiving the Bronze Star, he was recognized with many other awards, including Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Commendation Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
After retirement, he started his own business, Bell’s Mobile Home Service, which he retired from in 2014.
James enjoyed woodworking and carpentry, gardening and canning, reading, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He had many skills and talents that he used to take care of and make the lives of his family and friends better.
Services were planned for 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 7, at Bethany Baptist Church with Pastor Robert Lewis, Rev. Lonnie Johnson, and Rev. Andy Bell officiating, committal following at Bethany Cemetery.
Family planned to receive friends during the 90 minutes preceding services in the church.
In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be sent to Bethany Baptist Church, c/o Janice Ward, 263 Holly View Lane, Loris, SC 29569.
A guest register is available here.
