John Ernest Bell

Dr. John Ernest Bell PhD, 87, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home the evening of March 14th after a six month battle with cancer. He was a husband of 64 years, a father, a grandfather and a man dedicated to education. John is survived by his wife Barbara, his daughters Nancy and Laurie, his sons Martin and Jerry, and eight grandchildren. A Nebraska native and University of Nebraska Alumni, John made his way to Wyoming after graduation and joined his beloved Barbara in marriage. There he began his career in education and obtained his doctorate degree from the University of Wyoming while working as a school superintendent. From Wyoming to Colorado, John accepted educational positions as his family grew until he settled for good in Arizona. John Bell was professor to hundreds of aspiring educators at Arizona State University, aided the Arizona Department of Education, was a leader in North Central Accreditation, a founder of Emeritus College, and was Department Chair of Secondary Education for many years. John continued work in the education field throughout his life and after retirement. He will forever be known as the professor that took his students out for pizza and beers after finals. He was an avid golfer and talented photographer. John was a good man, a man of principal and a man of faith. He was an active member of his church and a consistent leader of prayer for his family. A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 23, at 2:00 PM at University Presbyterian Church, 139 S. Alameda Drive in Tempe.