CHARLES BELL
Charles "Huston" Bell, beloved husband, father, and friend, was born on November 30, 1932, in Marshall, Missouri, the only child of Charles Alfred "Chine" Bell and Virginia Ott "Jinks" Bell. He graduated from the University of Missouri in 1954, where he was a member and President of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Soon after graduation, he proudly served his country for three years in the United States Air Force as a flight navigator. Following his military service, Huston earned his Masters of Business Administration from Harvard University. He built a distinguished career in commercial real estate, spending most of his professional life with the Vantage Companies, a national commercial real estate development firm based in Dallas, Texas, where he rose to serve as president. Huston was also active in the Young Presidents' Organization (YPO) and the Salesmanship Club of Dallas, reflecting his lifelong commitment to leadership and service. Dallas was home to Huston for more than sixty years. An avid golfer, Huston was a longtime member of both Preston Trail Golf Club and Dallas Country Club. Over the course of his life, he recorded six holes-in-oneeach one celebrated with his trademark humility and good humor. He also loved a spirited game of gin rummy and rarely passed up the chance for a friendly match. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was a devoted fan of the Missouri Tigers and the Dallas Cowboys. For many years, Huston spent his summers in Bigfork, Montana, where he hosted his children and grandchildren for memorable family vacations that became cherished traditions. He will be remembered for his love of the gamein every sensehis steady leadership, and the warmth and generosity he shared with everyone he met. Huston was married to Kathleen "Katie" Bell for thirty-seven years until her passing in 2009. Together they raised three childrenKim Eimer (Jack), Frazier Bell (Buckie), and Richard Emery (Maura)who were the pride and joy of his life. In later years, Huston found companionship and happiness with his wife, Peggy Bell, who survives him, along with her daughter, Meg. He is also lovingly remembered by his twelve grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 10th at 3:00 p.m. at Highland Park United Methodist Church, with a reception to follow at Dallas Country Club. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Huston's caregiversChristine Latigo, Marie Wanguria, and Lee Poolefor their extraordinary compassion, dedication, and care. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Momentus Institute, established by the Salesmanship Club of Dallas (
https://momentusinstitute.org/donate).
Published by Marshall Democrat-News from Oct. 22 to Oct. 24, 2025.