Obituary of Thomas Arvin Bell

Mr. Thomas Arvin Bell of Fred, Texas, passed away Friday, February 1, 2019, at Pine Arbor Care Center in Silsbee, Texas, at the age of 88 years, 9 months, and 8 days.

Tom was born April 24, 1930, in Fred, Texas, to parents Tom J. Bell and Josie Hutto Bell and had been a lifelong area resident. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. Tom was a longtime employee of Kirby Lumber Company as an equipment operator—he was working for Kirby before going to the Army and returned to the same company as soon as he was discharged.

A horse trader by nature, he also loved his Beagle dogs and enjoyed their runs. Mr. Bell was a member of New Hope Baptist Church.

His survivors include his wife, Johnnie Elowease (Lewing) Bell of Fred, Texas; his step-sons, Mickey Fountain and wife Josey of Onalaska, Texas, Billy Fountain and wife Sharon of Warren, Texas, and Kelly Fountain of Fred, Texas; a sister, Jessie Minerik of Longview, Texas; and a host of other relatives, friends, and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his son, James Arvin Bell.

Services are set for 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at Farmer Funeral Home Chapel, located at 415 N. Fourth Street in Silsbee, Texas, with Bro. Welton McGallion officiating. Interment will follow at Franks Branch Cemetery, located on FM 92 South in Fred, Texas.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, February 4, 2019, funeral home.