Jimmy Bell

Jimmy W. Bell, 89, of Sedalia, MO passed away Thursday, October 1, 2020 at Sylvia G. Thompson Residence Center in Sedalia. He was born on March 1, 1931 in Wellington, KS, the son of Arthur & Ethel Bell who preceded him in death. Jimmy graduated from Garnett, KS in the class of 1949, and spent a majority of his childhood in that area.

On October 8, 1955 in Mission, KS he was united in marriage to Jama Bell, who preceded him in death. Jimmy was a collector, enthusiast and expert on antique cars-specifically Chevrolet's. He restored two Chevrolet convertibles, a 1946 and 1947 and helped countless friends restore their antique cars. One of his prouder accomplishments even included a 1965 Ford Mustang he restored for his daughter, Jan. His incredible memory of details and dates provided many stories of his high school days, the Korean War, his work experience and certainly fun moments with his family. A simple question by a friend or family member could trigger a 30 minute story about his experiences. Jim was gifted with the ability to fix, repair or construct just about anything. No project was too big, too small or too complicated for him. He built the garage of his dreams with the help of his son, Larry and meticulously laid out equipment and storage just to his specifications. He built a mini-bike from the ground up for his son, Larry and helped teach his grandson, Josh how to build a footstool for a school project. He was a perfectionist with his work and would even fashion a tool to accomplish a task if that certain tool was not available. Neighbors and friends knew they could count on him when they needed help. The majority of his work experience was in the automotive industry and independent claims adjusting business. He worked in an automobile dealership in Kansas City, KS before moving to the Sedalia area in the early 1960’s. In Sedalia, he worked as an independent insurance adjuster for 25+ years and frequently traveled throughout the Midwest for his job. Jimmy is survived by a daughter, Janice Crosby and her husband Greg of Iowa City, IA; a grandson, Josh Crosby and his wife Tarah of Wichita, KS; a sister-in-law, Edie Mattson and her husband Bruce, of Ridgedale, MO. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a son, Larry Bell. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 9, 2020 at Rea Funeral Chapel with Rev. Dan Hankins officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel. Burial will be at Highland Sacred Gardens, Sedalia, MO. Pallbearers will be Greg Crosby, Josh Crosby, Paul Albin, Dave Williams and John White.

Memorial contributions may be made to State Fair Community College Career & Technology Center in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.