James David Bell

James David Bell, known to friends as "The Professor," passed away suddenly on April 10, 2026, in Jackson, Mississippi. David left this earth as he lived his final years—surrounded by the friends he called family and ready to meet his Maker as a true man of God.

 A Journey of Faith and Service 

Born on September 27, 1968, David spent much of his life working wholeheartedly and with boundless energy. He formerly served as the Head of Housekeeping at the Mississippi State Hospital in Whitfield. However, it was after a life-altering car accident and two strokes in 2019 that David truly found his calling. Though these challenges left him with physical limitations and memory loss, they gave him what he called a "new lease on life." Over the last five years, David dedicated himself to Christian ministry. He became a fixture of service in the Jackson community, spreading the Word of God with a servant’s heart. Whether he was sipping a Mountain Dew or holding court with his signature catchphrase, "Now, here’s the thing, the Professor is speaking," people knew to quiet down and listen. He was an amazing, loving person who finally found his true place in the world through his faith. 

Family and Loved Ones 

David was preceded in death by his parents, J.D. Bell Jr. and Glynda Adams; his sister, Melissa Sills. He is survived by his siblings: Faith Chance Rodriguez (Robert) of McKinney, TX; Jaye Dee “DeeDee”Bell Patton (Jason) of Pearl, MS; Jake and Megan Bell of Brandon, MS, and Jamie Dewayne Scarbrough of Star, MS. He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews: Izzy, Emily and Phoenix Rodriguez, Zoe Kalista King Jones, Avery, Bryce, and Milly Bell. 

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Delvin Walter Fleming for his brotherhood and his contribution to David’s service as a man of God. Deep gratitude is also shared with the Care Center, Mercy House, Teen Challenge and the FOA Friends of Alcoholics for the dignity and chance they gave David to become the man he was meant to be.

 Celebration of Life 

The family will hold a private celebration of David's life at Johns Cemetery Brandon, Rankin County, Mississippi, in a future announcement.

 Thanks to Heritage Funeral Home in Terry, MS for their services in preparation for our beloved brother's final resting place.

 Memorial Contributions 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Friends of Alcoholics (FOA) Friends of Alcoholics in Jackson, Mississippi. David loved the ministry and the work they do to support others in finding their path. We believe ,”he entered the gates of Heaven not just as a servant, but as a man who finally found his home."