James Carleton "Jim" Bell

James C. “Jim” Bell

     KEYSER, WV – James Carleton “Jim” Bell, 84, of Keyser, passed away January 3, 2018 at Potomac Valley Hospital.

     Born on February 9, 1933 in Piedmont, he was the son of the late Carleton and Lois (Fredlock) Bell.  He is preceded in death by his five sisters, Flora Mae O’Brian, Helen Poland, Mary L. Niland, Margaret Cox and Joan Ahern and an infant brother, William Bell.  He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

     Jim was a 1952 graduate of Piedmont High School and attended Potomac State College.  An U.S. Army veteran, he served during the Korean Conflict and retired from Westvaco with 40 years of service.

     Jim was a member of the Queen City Striders, Mineral County Wildlife Association and the Victory Post 155, American Legion.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing and running multiple marathons, 5K and 10K.  Jim was a frequent jogger up and down New Creek.

     Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Nancy (Whitfield) Bell; his two sons, Steve Bell and wife Jackie of New Creek and Patrick Bell of Keyser; his daughter, Lois Ravenscroft and husband Chris of Keyser; his three grandchildren, Erin Ravenscroft, Laura (Ravenscroft) Pritts and husband Tom of Keyser and Jason Bell and wife Jenny of Norfolk, VA and his three great-grandchildren, Neva, Brant and Davis Pritts of Keyser.  He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Norma Lee McKenzie and husband Wayne of Westernport, MD.

     Friends will be received at the Markwood Funeral Home on Saturday, January 6, 2018 from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m.  Funeral services will be conducted in the funeral home on Sunday at 2 p.m. with Deacon Harold Bradley officiating.  Private Inurnment will be in Potomac Memorial Gardens.

     In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions be made to Mineral County Humane Society, c/o Mt. View Veterinarian, 90 Southern Drive, Keyser or Faith in Action Food Pantry, 72 James Street, Keyser.

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