On September 10, 1932, James Clinton Bell Sr. was born in Mount Pleasant Tennessee, the only child to Ora Lee Hill and Alonzo Bell.

James spent his early years in Tennessee, eventually moving to Chicago, Illinois where he attended John Marshall High School. During his time at John Marshall High School, James was a member of the school's football team and once earned a mention in the Chicago Tribune newspaper for his athletic abilities. James eventually graduated from John Marshall High School but not before he met the love of his life, Nellie Bowman.

James and Nellie were married on November 27, 1952, and a few days later December 3rd, 1952, James enlisted in the United States' Army serving during the Korean war. During his service time James received the Army Occupation Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. James received an Honorable Discharge from the service on December 3, 1954.

On February 10, 1955, James was hired as a bus driver for the Chicago Transit Authority serving as a driver and later an instructor, working there until he retired on January 1, 1988. A total of 32 years and 11 months of dedicated service to CTA.

James departed this life on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the age of 93. James leaves to cherish his precious memories the following: His sons, James C. Bell, Jr. (Diane), Gregory Bell (Kimberlyn).

Grandchildren: Tameisha Y. Bell, Jeanne C. McPartlin (Sean), James C. Bell III, Jerrod C. Baker, Kenneth R. Bell, Kiara A. Cagle.

Great Grandchildren: Quincy N. Bell, Dhemi J. Bell, Milana J. Bell, Ariyana Y. Bell, Giano Bell, Shawn W. Cagle, Cameron K. Cagle, Jayci N. Baker, Donovan P. McPartlin, Joyce L. McPartlin, November 2026 Baby Bell (Kenny & Fallon) and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

James was preceded in death by his father, Alonzo B. Bell, his daughter Joycelyn Baker (Derrick), his mother, Ora Lee Hill, his wife, Nellie Bell, his son, Michael Bell, his great grandson Declan J. McPartlin, his sister, Doris Marie Franklin, his sister Virgie Spraggs, his brother Alonzo B. Bell, Jr. and his brother in-kind (uncle) Leroy "Larry" Ewing. 

Family & friends will gather Friday, August 7th at 9:30am for a memorial service at Jubilee Baptist Church 660 Royce Road, Bolingbrook, IL. 60440. Inurnment & Military Honors will take place 12:30pm at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery 20953 W. Hoff Road. 

Arrangements Entrusted to McCauley-Sullivan Funeral Home.