Jeffrey Alan Bell

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Visitation Schedule
Trinity United Methodist Church
1101 N. Mississippi Street
Little Rock, AR  72207
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
5:30-7:30p.m.
Service Schedule
Trinity United Methodist Church
1101 N. Mississippi Street
Little Rock, AR  72207
Thursday, December 11, 2014
11:00 a.m.,
Cemetery
Forest Hills Memorial Park
Highway 5 North
Alexander, AR  72002
Memorial Contributions
Troop 12
Boy Scouts of American
3220 Cantrell Road
Little Rock, AR  72202
Jeffrey Alan Bell

of Little Rock, AR

April 18, 1951 - December 7, 2014

Jeffrey Alan Bell, 63, Little Rock, Arkansas, died December 7, 2014 after suffering a cerebral aneurysm and stroke. Born April 18, 1951 in Little Rock, Arkansas, to the late Loraine Edith Bell and John Joseph Bell, Jeff graduated with honors from Central High School. In 1973 he graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. He received the William Fulbright Award as the history student with the highest academic achievement. He also received the Cecil J. Wilkinson Award as the most outstanding member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity nationally. He earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in 1977, where he graduated with honors and was a member of the Law Review.

Early on in his legal career Jeff worked for the Arkansas Attorney General and served as the Deputy of the Civil Department. In 1994, Jeff was recruited by the University of Arkansas General Counsel's Office where he was chief of litigation. Jeff had a keen analytical mind and was an unyielding, tireless advocate. His zeal and dedication to his clients was always carried out in a principled, ethical manner. While Jeff was a great lawyer, he was an even greater father.

An accomplished, informed, intellectually gifted person of varied interests, he was, first and foremost, a family man. No one could have ever willingly and happily assumed and performed the duty of dad, the way he did. A loving father, a devoted husband, he lived his life for others. He was ''hands on,'' leading by example. The children knew that his demanding, disciplined approach to education and other activities was for their best interest. After all, he demanded more of himself than he did of them. At the core, he was the most loving of all people, and his family knew it.

He gave selflessly of his time to his children, although he never considered it a sacrifice. His family was his universe. An overachiever, he loved to cook, bake and cross-stitch. He was the Martha Stewart of men. Just three weeks prior to his untimely death, he hosted his famous annual neighborhood Halloween party, complete with monster punch, games, homemade goodies and festive decorations.

Jeff was an avid participant of the Central High Band Boosters, never missing an event. First to volunteer, last to leave. Jeff was a dedicated Boy Scout leader and a living role model of the Scouts honor: ''To be physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.'' He had a deep love and respect for nature which he insisted on sharing with his family on countless summer trips to numerous national parks full of hiking, camping and laughter.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Tricia; his sons, John and Michael; his young daughter Emily and his older daughter Amanda Price and her husband Nick; his grandchildren, Isabella, Emma Grace and Julia; sister, Kathy Gilchrist; in-laws, Rice and Carlena VanAusdall; sister and brother-in-laws, Dave and Stacy Grundfest, and Bill and Carla Latourette; brother-in-law, Lee VanAusdall; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their appreciation to UAMS for the care extended to Jeff during his brief illness, and their gratitude for the overwhelming support received from Jeff's numerous cherished friends and colleagues.

Pall bearers are Dr. Gene Shelby, Barry Bray, Sam Boyster, Gregg Patterson, Scott Vardy, Mark Hagemeier, Bill Kincaid, Matt McCoy. Honorary pall bearers are Fred Harrison, Phil Kaplan, Greg Jones, Brice Evans, Scott Addison, members of Boy Scout Troop 12 and members of the Central High School Band Boosters.

Visitation is Wednesday, December 10, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Little Rock from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and funeral celebration is Thursday, December 11 at Trinity United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. Memorials can be made to Troop 12, Boy Scouts of America. Arrangements by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas (501) 224-8300.



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47 Condolence(s)
Harriette Eichard
Charlotte, NC
Liked
Monday, March 1, 2021

To his family, Jeff was a friend. In those days at Central there were not many like him. I also knew him when he was at the Y of A, where we both were in grad school.

I am delighted to know he had a great life beyond our academic settings. I am sure you all were blessed beyond measure to have him in your lives. May love and blessings continue in your lives.

John Kuespert
Tampa, FL
Liked
Friday, December 4, 2020

Jeff and I graduated from LRCHS together. He always treated other people and myself with kindness and respect. Regardless of your background. Never forgotten.

Marsha Choate Woodruff
Fayetteville, AR
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Thursday, June 4, 2015

I was saddened to read of Jeff's passing today in the Arkansas Lawyer. We were fairly close friends in college and Law School and then went different directions with a few passing remarks at Bar Meetings thereafter. But the intensity of his kindness, chivalry, humor, and intelligence will never leave me. His legal work spoke for itself and I am profoundly sorry for his untimely loss for his family and for the State of Arkansas.

David C Nicholson
Fort Smith,
Liked
Saturday, January 31, 2015

This is truly a tragic loss. Jeff was a good friend and a Great person. He was a sophomore at Phi Gam when I pledged as a freshman. Always happy to help, smarter than anyone I knew, there when you needed him, supportive to me as I struggled through engineering. A finest memory now... True Blue.

Bob Marquette
Fort Smith,
Liked
Saturday, January 31, 2015

Jeff was my little brother in our fraternity at the UofA and we were extremely close. He was an incredible person and I will always remember his grin and the way his face would light up when he laughed. He was a great friend and I was devastated to find out his passing. RIP Jeff, you are missed.

Marguerite ("Margie) Ann Chapman
Tulsa, OK
Liked
Monday, January 26, 2015

I was so sorry to learn this past weekend of Jeff's untimely death. I met and worked with Jeff as undergraduates at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where he and I were chosen as the recipients of the Arkansas Alumni Association Senior Honor Citation as the outstanding undergraduate senior man and senior woman for 1973. In addition to his brilliant intellect and innate leadership capabilities, Jeff was a thoroughly decent human being. I extend my deepest sympathy to his loved ones.

Milo and Ann Shult
Doss, TX
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Thursday, January 1, 2015

To Jeff's family,
We were so sorry to hear of Jeff's passing. I had the privilege and pleasure of working with him during his tenure at the U of A System. We had many interesting times. His intellect and his humor made him a very valued colleague and friend. In our faith, we recognize the need to mourn the loss of a loved one but we also believe we should be celebrating his birthday in Heaven as well. We have you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Milo and Ann

Tim Humphries
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, December 18, 2014

Jeff was about history, hard work, curiosity, generosity and fun. That last one comes easily to everybody nowadays, but we are so very lucky to have had Jeff to show everybody he touched the value of those others.

Sharman Hannah Bell
Jonesboro, AR
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Monday, December 15, 2014

Tricia, so very sorry to hear of your loss. Jeff must have been a wonderful man! Please let me know if there is anything I can do. I love you very much! Sharman

Robert Youg
Little Rock,
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Saturday, December 13, 2014

You were taken from us to be in a better place my Brother.
RIP Jeff will miss you.

Elizabeth Zimmerman
NLR, AR
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Friday, December 12, 2014

To all Jeff's friends and family:
I am a 1969 grad of Central . I don't believe I've seen him since, but he sticks in my mind as one of the most outstanding students. We were not close friends, but "Friendly from afar". I never left his presence without a smile from his warm-hearted joking and kidding. Even if I'd not read of his accomplishments, I would have said that the world is a harder, less happy place with his passing. I'll never forget that infectious smile and happy boy that he was. I grieve with you. Liz Z.

David Williams
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Friday, December 12, 2014

My heartfelt sympathy to you. Jeff and I started law school together and were colleagues in the AG's office after he left corporate law for public service. He was an excellent lawyer with a great mind but an even better all-around guy. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Dave Sadler
Pine Bluff, AR
Liked
Friday, December 12, 2014

I was very sorry to hear the news about Jeff. I had the pleasure of working with him from time to time in his role with the University of Arkansas. He always performed his job at the highest level, but just as importantly, was the kind of person you just enjoyed being around. I know he will be greatly missed by his family and co-workers. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Maribeth Taylor Cates
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Friday, December 12, 2014

I remember Jeff as one of the most kind, witty and brilliant people I have ever known. I have myriads of memories working with him at Southwestern Bell. Then, in later years as a true, true friend. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends and to all who have known and loved him.

Jeanette Hamilton
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Friday, December 12, 2014

Tricia, I was so sad to hear about Jeff. He was my deputy when I worked in the Civil Department of the AG's office back in the early 90's and I had tremendous respect for him as a lawyer and more importantly, as a person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Jill Ballard
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, December 11, 2014

I am so sorry for your loss! He was such a great dad, and I cannot fathom what you are going through right now. The halls of Baker will never be the same without him there to support his children. You are all in my prayers!

Gladys Benford
Pine Bluff, AR
Liked
Thursday, December 11, 2014

My deepest condolences are extended to the entire Bell Family. It is still difficult to grasp the fact that Jeff will no longer be with us. He was a tremendous help to me, the UAPB HR Department, and the University. He will be sorely missed. May God continue to bless and comfort you. "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3 (NIV)

George E Herts
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, December 11, 2014

This is to express my condolences to the Bell family...............Attorney Bell and I worked together on behalf of UAPB for several years....

Shawn McMurray
,
Liked
Thursday, December 11, 2014

Tricia, I am so sorry to hear of Jeff's untimely death! He was such a wonderful man, with such a great laugh. Our prayers go out to you and all of your family.

John C. Edwards
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, December 11, 2014

Jeff was one of the finest men that I have ever known. He was a real gentlemen, something the world really needs right now. I am thankful that he helped teach others how to be good people.

Mariam Hopkins
,
Liked
Thursday, December 11, 2014

My sincerest sympathies to the entire Bell family. Jeff was a fine human being and good lawyer. He will be missed by his peers.

Dawn Barrera
San Antonio,
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tricia, I am so shocked to hear what has happened. Jeff was such a special guy. I will always remember his blow out Halloween parties and his frequent presence up at the kids' school. I pray for God's comfort during this sad time. Miss you and send my love!

Karen Doak
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tricia, my heart hurts for you and the kids. I cannot believe that Jeff is gone. You two were some of my very favorite parents!! Saw Jeff at the beginning of the school year at Kroger and he told me that he had told Gracen Toland that she would enjoy my class. He was such a precious human being. We were so blessed when he spoke to all of my classes about WWII. I will pray everyday for you and the kids. Jeff was taken from all of us toooooooo soon. He must be holding court in Heaven!! Love you, Karen Doak

Paula Smith
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tricia-I just read of Jeff's passing. I totally understand what you are going thru now. I lost Wayne Oct 28. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless you all

Diana Wilson
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Trisha - my thoughts are with you and all of Jeff's family during this very hard time. He always had a wonderful laugh, and helped raise many a puppy lawyer at the AG's Office. I'll be thinking of all of you.

Reginald Rogers
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tricia and Family: Jeff exemplified what the model of an attorney and a family person should exhibit. All of us greatly admired Jeff for his excellent professional work as an attorney. More importantly, he was a wonderful , caring person. I had the privilege to first meet him when we worked at the Attorney General's Office in the early '90s. I saw the both of you at a store several weeks ago. I thought to myself at that time : What a perfect loving couple! Our prayers are with you at this time of loss. May Jeff Rest in the Peace of Christ !!! Reg Rogers

Jeannie O'Neil
Colleyville, TX
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tricia,
I am so sorry to hear of Jeff's passing. I am keeping you and your precious family in my prayers and thoughts.
Jeannie O'Neil

Rodger Austin
Harrisburg, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tricia Thinking of you and your family during this very difficult time.

Roberta B. (R.B.) Friedlander
Tampa, FL
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Jeff's passage is a personal and yet, very public loss for Arkansas. In the many years we worked together in the Arkansas Attorney General's Office, Jeff unfailingly provided keen intellect, insight and support to his legal colleagues and clients. A treasured friend, a top-notch lawyer, a nature lover extraordinaire...I will remember Jeff mostly in the way I believe he would have wanted; as a loving father whose significant legacy will now be carried out by his children. My love and prayers for Trish and his entire family.

Pam Dial
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

You are in my thoughts and prayers, Amanda and family. Your dad's obituary shows what a great example he set for all of you. Please know you are loved at this difficult time.

Marsha Ballard
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

A gentle giant of a man with a great sense of humor and a very generous heart. You could always count on Jeff for great advice. He provided this uncanny sense of stability that made you know that, with Jeff involved, everything was going to be handled with a balanced combination of excellence and grace. We will miss this amazing lawyer and friend. We hope he will continue to guide us in his own way.

Karl, Kathy, Charlotte, and Nathan Boehme
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

The Boehme family is saddened to hear the news. Please know that our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family: especially, Tricia, his daughter Amanda Price, our son's teacher, and Emily, our daughter's soccer teammate.

Richard Wheeler
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

My thoughts are with Jeff's family. I was shocked and saddened when I learned of his death. He was a vibrant individual and it was always my pleasure to be around him. He helped me more times than I can count with legal issues in the College of Medicine. I will miss him very much.

Rebecca Tutton
hot springs, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

My heart is so very sad at Jeff's loss. I worked with Jeff; me at UAMS and he our attorney. We were a great team. I had great respect and admiration for his knowledge and his dedication to his family. He will be so very missed.

Lawrence A Davis Jr
Pine Bluff,
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Condolences

Philip Kaplan
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

What a wonderful human being. What a superb lawyer. His good nature and charm, his robust laugh will live in our hearts.

Gregg Patterson
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Jeff Bell was as quality a man as one could ever hope to encounter. He and I led our small Cub Scout Den together and have actively stayed with those same young men in Boy Scout Troop 12 ever since. If you want to see the integrity and quality of Jeff Bell's legacy, just look at his family. The result of a life well lived is evident. He is a friend who will be deeply missed. Our prayers are with his family.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Jacquelyn W. McCray
Pine Bluff, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Please know that I, and other employees of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, share in the love and respect that all who associated with Jeff had for his work ethic, compassion and dedication to the UA System. My association with Jeff began almost immediately following his appointment to the UA System Legal Department, and his advice and counsel was always exceptional and appropriate.

Karen Curley
Roland, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

We are so very sorry for your loss...know that you will remain in our hearts, thoughts and prayers in the days to come. "God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear..."
Psalm 46:1-2a
Love and Prayers,
Karen, Jim and Shane Curley
Irving and Betty Seager

Graham Gillis
Conway, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tricia and family: I had the honor to work with Jeff for 13 years at the UA System Office. Not only was he an excellent attorney, he became a good friend. I loved going to his office and discussing the Razorbacks. I would also gaze around his office and look at all the pictures he had placed of you and the children. You could tell how proud he was of his family. May it help to know that you and your family are in the thoughts and prayers of so many people that had the privilege to know Jeff Bell. He was the real deal. Graham

David Fuqua
,
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Tricia, the news of Jeff's passing affected me deeply and I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Jeff was a huge presence in our legal community. He will be missed.

Bill Mann
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, December 10, 2014

I worked with Jeff at the Attorney General's Office many years ago. He was a really fine person. My prayers are with his family.

Greg Bryant
Little Rock, AR
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Wednesday, December 10, 2014

A wonderfully written tribute to a wonderful guy. Our paths first crossed at LRCHS, later as opposing counsel and finally at Troop 12. The Bryant Family extends our deepest condolences.

Alyse Kilberr
Pine Bluff,
Liked
Tuesday, December 9, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are extended to the family of Mr. Bell. He was a wonderful person who treasured the simple things in life. I only knew him for a few short years, however, he made a great impression because of his professional and respectful demeanor.

Arnie and Sharon Jochums
Sarasota, FL
Liked
Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Trisha-Arnie and I are so saddened by your loss. Jeff was always a friend and wonderful colleague .Thinking of you and your family and keeping you in our prayers. Arnie and Sharon

Susan Bumpas
Denver,
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Tuesday, December 9, 2014

My thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff's family. He was a most exceptional person.

Johnna Hoffman
Conway, AR
Liked
Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Tricia: Thinking of you and your family during this very difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

And God whispers close to us in a hurting world. A mother whose heart is bound to her child's? That doesn't compare to how your Father's heart is bound to you. (Isaiah 49:15)