Herbert Laslie Bell

His was a life well lived. Full of love for the Lord, his family and a work ethic that was unsurpassed. So, it is with heavy hearts that we announce that on March 28, 2022, Herbert L. Bell of Montgomery, Alabama passed away at age 81.

Herb, affectionately known as “Papa” is survived by his children, Mrs. Kathy B. (Russ) Duraski of Montgomery; Mr. S. Craig (Melanie) Bell of Wetumpka; Mrs. Stacie B. Stokes of Auburn. He has 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. He has too many other family and friends to mention but to say he fiercely loved them all would be to understate the depths of his devotion to his family and friends. Never has there been a more generous or caring soul. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Willis H. Bell, his brother Willis Bell, a son, H. Byron “Bubba” Bell.

Herb worked for 50 years at Hormel and then a variety of jobs after his retirement from there. Once he officially “retired” he dedicated himself to loving his family. Even while working his jobs, he helped his loving wife Betty care for countless children in her “in home daycare” business. The lives of the children and parents they touched were forever changed by the care, wisdom and love they shared in their home every day. The names of the families are far too numerous to mention here, but all who knew “Nana and Papa” will never forget the love they brought their way.

Herb was an avid reader, a recreational hunter, and a master builder. It was often said of him that he was “handiest” man ever. He could build anything and reveled in time spent in his workshop.

Papa had many very special friends in life, but it was time with his beloved wife of 54 years that mattered most to him. We are sure that there was great rejoicing in Heaven when they were reunited there.

His love for his family and friends was only matched by his love for his Lord. He assured his family that he was prepared to meet the Master and it is with great confidence that we celebrate his reunion with Him.

Services will be held at Leak Memory Chapel 945 Lincoln Road Montgomery, Alabama and with graveside at Greenwood Cemetery 909 Lincoln Road Montgomery, Alabama. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations are made to Perry Hill United Methodist Church 910 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, Alabama 36109 in his Memory.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Leak-MC.com for the Bell family.