John Michael Bell passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on Monday, April 13, 2026.

Born October 29, 1952 in Seneca, SC, John was the son of the late John Milton Bell and Hazel Padgett Bell. He grew up in Sanford, FL but the family then moved to Gainesville, FL where he attended the University of Florida. He worked in the family’s jewelry store, Bell’s Jewelers, first in Gainesville before moving the business to Seneca and eventually, Clemson, SC. He was proud to have been known as a fine jeweler who possessed strong craftsmanship skills.

While living in Florida, John enjoyed many trips to the beach and surfing. He also enjoyed NASCAR racing, college and professional baseball and football games and was an avid Clemson fan - collecting many Clemson mementoes over the years. John was a loving father to his sons, enjoyed fishing and camping in the mountains with them, and served as a team assistant for their many youth Central/Clemson baseball teams and Boy Scout troops. More recently, his daughter-in-laws and young grandchildren brought great joy to his life and he spoke of them frequently to all who would listen.

John is survived by his son, Ryan Patrick (Eileen) Bell and two grandchildren, Adeline Mary-Kathleen and Daniel Ryan Bell, of Wetumpka, AL; his son, Nathan Matthew (Ashleigh) Bell and two grandchildren, Maximilian Kolbe and Titus Matthew Bell of Charlotte, NC; his sister, Barbara Bell Sherwood of Orlando, FL; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and his former wife, friend and caregiver, Catherine Gambrell Bell. He is also survived by his beloved feline companion of many years, Poppet.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his infant grandson, Joseph Patrick Bell.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Mt. Zion Cemetery located at 856 West Main Street, Central, SC 29630.

Brown Funerals is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www. cssc.brown.com