Alan Ray Bell

Alan Ray Bell, a cherished soul known for his sharp wit, creative spirit, and courageous heart, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, in Abilene, Texas. Born in Lamesa, Texas, on September 29, 1947, Alan's journey through life was a testament of his dedication to his craft, family, and community.
Alan attended Blackwell schools where he participated in a variety of sports including football, basketball, and running track. As a young man, Alan worked in the oil fields of Texas, where he learned the value of hard work and determination.
On October 17, 1974, Alan married his one true love, Pauline Calhoon, from San Saba, TX and were together for over 50 years.
That same year Alan began his journey in the leather business under Bill Barton, a saddle maker in Abilene, where his natural talent for leather tooling and saddle making quickly became evident. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to open his own boot making business, Bell Custom Boots, which he passionately operated for 48 years.
His custom boots were not only a symbol of his craftsmanship but also a piece of Texas heritage. Alan's work was celebrated in the George H. Bush Presidential Library during the Texas Sesquicentennial, showcasing his contribution to Texas boot making. This recognition was further solidified when he was honored as bootmaker of the year by the Will Rogers Foundation in 2018. Alan's remarkable creations and his story were featured in several prestigious publications, including Texas Monthly, Southern Living, and Town and Country, spreading his renown far beyond the borders of his beloved state.
Alan's spiritual nature guided him through life's ebbs and flows, providing a sense of peace and purpose that he shared with all who knew him. His interests were as profound as his personality; he relished the time spent playing with his grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. His love for Texas history was infectious, often captivating friends and family.
To know Alan was to experience laughter, for he possessed an unparalleled sense of humor that could light up the darkest room. His creativity was not confined to his work; it permeated his everyday interactions, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to cross his path. Alan faced life's challenges with courage, inspiring others to do the same.
Alan Ray Bell's story does not end with his passing but continues through the lives he touched, the art he crafted, and the memories he created. His was a life well-lived, full of passion, creativity, and love. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a man who embodied the true spirit of Texas, leaving an indelible mark on the world through his work, his family, and his enduring legacy.
Survived by his loving wife, Pauline Bell; his son, Cody Alan Bell; daughter-in-law, Jennifer Bell; his adored granddaughter and partner-in-mischief, Lily Anne "Smackie" Bell; and his cherished grandson and new buddy, Grady Alan Bell, Alan's legacy is one of love and commitment. He also leaves behind his brother, Richard Eugene Bell of Blackwell, nieces Deecie Tjaden, Traci Jordan, Shaye Thompson, and nephews Jody Bell, Jamie Rogers, Dustin Rogers, Jason Thompson, Rusty Thompson, John Veach, Rodney Veach, Addie Adams, Tony Shields, Laura Shields, Dee Elliot, and Raynae Gregg, and many grand-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Myrl Deen Thompson, step father, J.R. Thompson, brothers Billy Don Hindman, Ronald Wayne Bell, sister Debra Myrl Rogers, nieces Amber and Kelli Hindman, and nephew Billy Dee Hindman.