LTC (Ret.) Jack Bell

Born October 9th, 1938 in Tallassee, Alabama, Jack was predeceased by his parents J.O. Bell and Laura Lola (Williams) Bell.

Jack attended Robert E. Lee High School and was awarded a football scholarship to Baylor University, where his football career was cut short by an injury. His enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps began a life-long career of service to our nation and his state. Shortly after completing boot camp at Paris Island, Jack was commissioned a 2LT in the Aviation Branch of the U.S. Army where he trained to fly Mohawks. He completed two tours of duty in Vietnam where he was awarded the Air Medal for his combat service. Other awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation and Achievement Medals, along with Vietnam and Southwest Asia Service Medals. Following his second combat tour, Jack returned to the United States and became a member of the U.S. Army Reserves.

Jack then completed his undergraduate education earning a BA in Criminal Justice from Huntington College and obtained his Masters from AUM and began a second career as an aviator with the Alabama State Police, where he flew narcotics eradication for the Alabama Bureau of Investigation. Jack was also active in the leadership of the Alabama State Troopers Association, and was frequently involved in the representation of Troopers interests at the State Capitol. A life-long fan of the University of Alabama, he was honored to be chosen as a a member of the side-line detail for Coach Ray Perkins.

Volunteering once again to serve, Jack returned to active duty serving on the ARCENT Staff (Forward) during Operation Desert Shield & Storm. He then retired after returning home to Montgomery from his third combat tour.

Jack was a member of Frazier United Methodist Church. He was known for his devotion to the Lord and loved to witness about Jesus.

Jack was the beloved husband to Martha, and the proud father of daughters Laura (COL Randy Kirby, US Army Ret), and Angie (CAPT John Beaver, USN Ret.) both of Virginia, and stepchildren Kevin Beck (Elise) and Kelly Beck (Jennifer Kilpatrick), and the loving grandfather of Katie, Jackie, Alyssa, Micah, and Ethan. Jack also held a special place in his heart for Oscar, Gabe, and D.C.