Robert Gene "Bob" Bell

ROBERT GENE "BOB" BELL, 85 of Summersville, passed away on Saturday December 13, 2025, at the Ansted Center.
Bob was born on September 9, 1940, in Richwood to the late Robert Meador Bell and Mary Opal Herold Bell. He was a graduate of Nicholas County High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from West Virginia University, where he cultivated both his agricultural expertise and a lifelong love for WVU athletics, especially football and basketball.
During his time at WVU, Bob was on a first-name basis with his professors, participated on the livestock judging team, and proudly judged the Hall of Fame American Quarter Horse, Poco Bueno, an accomplishment he delighted in recounting often and enthusiastically, particularly to those who had already heard the story many times before.
Following college, Bob farmed, raising potatoes and sheep, before founding Bell Farms Reclamation Services in 1973. His work ethic was unmatched. Well into his final year, Bob could be found tending cattle, overseeing daily operations, and, true to form, assisting with cutting, baling, and putting up hay just months before his passing. Bob approached problem-solving with ingenuity and common sense, favoring functionality over aesthetics, and he was generous with both his resources and his time. His employees were not simply workers; they were family.
Bob was married to Cora Lea (Shaver) Bell for 56 years, a love story that defined his life. Their marriage was marked by devotion, laughter, and quiet moments, like slow dances in the kitchen to George Jones and Tammy Wynette duets. Bob adored Cora Lea. Her presence steadied him, reined in his few vices, which included gambling and the occasional glass of white zinfandel, affectionately referred to as "sippers," depending on who was keeping count, and anchored him in joy. Bob loved to travel with her, especially to WVU bowl games during the Don Nehlen era and to casinos, where his luck persisted more often than not.
Bob was a proud father. He was preceded in death by his infant twin sons, Larry and Terry Bell, who lived less than 24 hours, a loss he carried quietly throughout his life. Bob is survived by his children, Debbie (Bill) Lipcsey of Goochland, VA; Robert (Jeannie) Bell, Jr. of Summersville, and Lisa Bell-Bowyer (John) of Beckley; grandson Christopher Lipcsey of Fredericksburg, Virginia. Bob took great pride in his children and could often be overheard, once they were just out of earshot, reciting their recent accomplishments or repeating their latest ideas he thought were just brilliant, especially if he had helped incubate them.
Raised by devout Methodist parents who insisted on faithful church attendance, Bob carried those early lessons in quieter ways. He later described himself as spiritual rather than religious and was known to say he felt closest to God while standing on his land, overlooking his cattle, filled with wonder, pride, and gratitude for a life well worked.
In addition to his parents and twin sons, Bob was preceded in death by; his sister, Mary Joan Bell Lemons; and his beloved wife, Cora Lea. After her passing, Bob was fortunate to find companionship again with Suzie (Stickler) Bell, who treated him and his family with kindness and care until her passing in July 2025.
Bob spent the final six weeks of his life at Ansted Center, where he received exceptional care from compassionate nurses and staff. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for him, with special thanks to Karla Sanford and Kristian Shutts for their kindness and dedication.
Bob was known for his boyish charm, quick wit, and well-timed off-color joke, often laughing so hard at his own punchline that he brought himself to tears. He loved telling stories of youthful mischief, no matter how many times his audience had heard them before. His tall tales, comedic blunders, and sage advice will continue to echo among those who knew him.
Bob's absence will be deeply felt by his children, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched through his work and generosity. While the sting of his passing remains, it is softened by the enduring reverberations of a life lived fully, grounded in work that never felt much like work to Bob, laughter, and an unwavering devotion to the woman who held his heart.
Graveside services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Thursday December 18, 2025 at the Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Glade Creek with Pastor Jim Boyer officiating.
The Waters Funeral Chapel at Summersville is in charge of the arrangements.
Condolences: watersfuneralchapel.com