Paul L. Bell

Paul LeVern Bell, 77, of Oil City, Pennsylvania, passed away on January 6, 2026 and went home to his Heavenly Father.

Paul was born on October 14,1948, in Grove City. He was the son of the late Donald L. Bell and Nellie M. Goettman Bell. He graduated from Franklin High School in 1966 and spent much of his life in the Oil City area, where he was known as a hardworking man devoted to his family, faith, and community.

Following high school, Paul was drafted into the United States Army, where he faithfully served his country. During his military service, he was stationed in Germany, an experience that shaped his discipline, work ethic, and sense of responsibility.

Paul worked in construction for many years, first learning the trade as a teenager alongside his father. He was a skilled craftsman who took pride in his work and attention to detail. Over the years, he was employed by Continental Can and also worked in cabinetry and masonry. He was involved with DCB Construction and later worked for OMG Chemical. Through all of his work, Paul was respected for his reliability, skill, and strong work ethic.

A devoted father, Paul was always present for every game, practice, and season, quietly supporting and encouraging his sons. He shared his skills in building, woodworking, and outdoor pursuits, guiding them with patience and leading by example.

A man of deep faith and service, Paul devoted many years to Oil City Church of the Nazarene. There, he served faithfully on the church board, led the youth group, and drove the church van for more than 40 years-picking up countless children and families and making sure they had a way to come to church. In more recent years, Paul was a regular attendee at Victory Heights United Brethren Church.

Paul found great joy in his backyard, where he spent countless hours tending his garden and blueberry bushes. He loved opening his home and yard to youth and friends from church, offering hospitality, laughter, and a welcoming place to gather.

A cherished family tradition was "Gramma and Papa Camp," when all the grandchildren would come together for a week at Paul and Marilyn's home. Highlights included early morning swims, blueberry picking, baking together, impromptu basketball tournaments, playing sardines (hiding in closets), and fireworks. These joyful weeks created treasured memories and a legacy of love, fun, and family togetherness that will be remembered for generations.

Loved ones left behind to cherish Paul's memory are his wife, Marilyn Bell; his sons, Chad Bell of Grafton, Massachusetts, and his children Tyler, Audrey, and Lexi; Kevin (Stephanie) Bell of Pittsburgh, and their children Ethan and Asher; and Adam Bell of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and his sister MaryAnn Bell Melosh of Sterling, Virginia. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Donald L. Bell and Nellie M. Goettman Bell; his brothers, Samuel Adam Bell and David LeRoy Bell; and his sister, Ruth Ellen Bell.

Paul will be remembered for his servant's heart, his dedication to his family and church, and the steady, generous way he lived his life. His legacy is one of faith, service, and love.

Visitation will be held on Saturday (January 10) from 10 - 11 a.m. in the Victory Heights United Brethren Church, 5978 US 322, Franklin, PA 16323, where a funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Mike Heim, officiating. Private interment will be made in the Clintonville Methodist Cemetery in Clintonville, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to a charity of one's choice that helps those in need; or to Compassion International (www.compassion.com)

Funeral arrangements are being completed by Hile-Best Funeral Home in Seneca. To express online condolences to Paul's family, visit www.hilebest.com