Johnnie Ray Bell, age 79

Johnnie Ray Bell, 79, of Little Rock Arkansas, went to be with his Lord and Savior on August 4^th, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family.  Johnnie was of the Baptist Faith.  He was born in Leachvillie Arkansas to Fred and Thelma (Cowgill) Bell.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Evelyn Bell, his stepson Eric Kietzerow, his brothers Gail Bell and Wayne Bell, his granddaughters Kristine Vondran, Zoe Bell and Rachel Kietzerow.

Johnnie is survived by his son Ron (Sherry) Bell of Little Rock, Michelle Bell Vondran, Daughter-in-law Kelly Kietzerow, his granddaughters Rachel Vondran, Stephanie Vondran, Katie Vondran, and Anna Kietzerow all of Michigan, Jordan Bell of Little Rock, step-granddaughter Carrie Curtis of Conway, great-granddaughter Riley Curtis of Conway, and sister Dernice Capps of Judsonia Ar. As well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was a veteran having served in the Unites States Navy and also Army Reserves. He was a man of many talents and worked hard in whatever field he was in. Over his lifetime he held positions in Law Enforcement, farmer, construction, pharmacy technician, cross country truck driver and lastly at over the age of 60 he returned to Law Enforcement with the Palatka County Sherriff office in Palatka Florida, where he eventually retired. He was an avid motorcyclist who should have applied multiple times for the Iron Butt Award Pin, as he only knew one way to ride……all the way. Every trip from his home in Florida to visit his son in Arkansas was always completed in one day as was the return trip. He eventually moved back to Arkansas and due to health reasons had to give up his love of riding. While in Florida he was a member of the American Legion and served as Chaplain. He also rode with the Patriot Guard Riders to honor our Veterans.

Johnnie had a deep love for his Lord and although we know he is healed and walking with Jesus, his presence here will definitely be missed. He was a quiet but strong force in any storm and led by example. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Mast Cell Disease Society, The Make a Wish Foundation or the Association for X and Y Chromosome Variations as three of his grands benefited from these associations.

Cremation was carried out by Natural State Funeral Home in Jacksonville Ar. The family will have a private memorial service at a later date.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas, 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com