Baxter I. Bell Jr.

Dr. Baxter I. Bell Jr., a beloved family physician and cherished lifelong member of the Williamsburg community, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 15, surrounded by his loving children. He dedicated his life to serving others through medicine, community involvement, and a deep devotion to his family.

Dr. Bell was born December 28th, 1926, on Duke of Gloucester Street in the "Old Bell Hospital", founded by his father. He graduated high school from Matthew Whaley and spent a treasured year at Virginia Episcopal School in Lynchburg, VA. In 1945, he was drafted into the United States Army and honorably served as part of the Occupation in Bremerhaven, Germany.

A proud alumnus of the College of William and Mary, Dr. Bell graduated in 1949 and went on to earn his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia. He met his dear wife, Anne, while interning at Norfolk General and joined his father in practice at Bell Hospital on Cary Street in 1956, later converting the hospital to a private practice office building. Over a distinguished 40-year career, Dr. Bell embodied the true spirit of a family doctor. He made countless house calls, loved delivering babies, and cared for people through every stage of life. His compassionate care, gentle presence, and, at times, frank advice left an indelible mark on the lives of many.

Dr. Bell formed lifelong friendships through his involvement in numerous organizations, including the Pulaski Club, Middle Plantation Club, and the esteemed Jamestown Literary Society (also known as Thursday Night Poker). He was an avid tennis player and a passionate supporter of William & Mary Athletics. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family. Providing his children with new adventures and experiences was one of his greatest joys and after retirement, he loved traveling the world with Anne. Over the last 10 years, he lived with his grandson Tyler and the pair were familiar faces at his favorite local restaurants.

Dr. Bell is preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Baxter I. Bell Sr. and Imogene Bell, and his beloved wife, Anne. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion through his surviving family: sons Baxter I. Bell III (Carol Lee) and Clifton Bell (Laurie); daughter Marianne Hark (Lee); grandchildren Tyler, Montana, Spencer, Anne, Ben, Jane and Eliza; sisters Carolyn Hall and Virginia Mulford and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends and loved ones at Bucktrout Funeral Home on Friday, August 22nd from 5-7 pm, with a memorial service at 10 am on Saturday, August 23rd at the same location. A private family burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the William and Mary Athletics Foundation or the Parkinson's Foundation.