Jerry Bell, 73

Gerald Robert Bell, 73, walked through the gates of Heaven on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, in Missoula, Mont., with his loving family at his side.

Gerald was born to Robert and Irene Bell in Alliance, Ohio, on July 18, 1951. He attended Nazarene Bible College and was a member of the California and Montana National Guard reserves. 

On July 23, 1970, he married the love of his life, Carol Elsberry, in Pasadena, Calif. They shared children Steven, Kimberly and Michael. Gerald's love for his family was unwavering. He was a Nazarene pastor for 32 years, serving in Washington, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado and Louisiana. 

In 2008, Gerald and Carol settled in Hayden, Idaho, where Gerald worked as a substitute teacher at Lake City and Coeur d’Alene high schools. When Carol retired in 2022, they sold their home in Hayden and spent the winter in Saint George, Utah. Most recently, Gerald and Carol were campground hosts at the Snyder Guard Station in Idaho, which they enjoyed immensely.

Gerald enjoyed fishing, spending time creating lifelong memories with his family and running the clock at basketball and football games. Gerald will be remembered for the sugar cookies he made at Christmas, his bear hugs and his pride and love for his children and grandchildren.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Carol Stone, Ed Bell, Kenneth Bell and grandson Isaac Elijah Savelkoul. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Carol; their children Steven (Jessica) Bell, Kimberly (Steve) McCracken, and Michael (Robyn) Bell; grandchildren Krista (Brady) Licht, Kaitlyn (Brandan) Kotar, Tyler (Madie) Bell, Isiah (Tori) Savelkoul, Noah (Sophie) Bell, Ally Bell, and Joshua Bell; great-granddaughter Juniper Licht; his brother David (Ronda) Bell and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

An intimate and private celebration of life, filled with cherished memories and heartfelt tributes, was held in Yaak, Mont., on Aug. 1, 2024. His family has requested that donations be made to Hospice of North Idaho. 

As a family, we would like to express our gratitude to you who took the time to enrich Jerry’s life with your friendship.