Donald Robert Bell

Mr. Donald Robert Bell, 88, of Franklin, NC went home to be with the Lord February 1, 2026. He was born January 2, 1938, in Indianapolis, IN to the late Charles and Gilberta Bell.

Mr. Bell was of the Christian faith, he also enjoyed a good party. He participated in many military socials, and he enjoyed dancing and music, especially country western music and "Bubble Gum Oldies". Donald also loved to go fishing, camping, and photography.

Mr. Bell served in the Air Force for 21 years, from 1956 to 1977, during which time he served in Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, and Spain. He also served temporary assignments in Turkey and Italy and worked as an Area 51 security guard. He worked for Suburban Propane for over 20 years after the Vietnam War.

Mr. Bell had a good heart, endlessly caring for his family and others. He had a great sense of humor, always saying, "Be good, if you can’t be good come and get me!” 

Mr. Bell is survived by his wife of 66 years, Theresa Bell; his children, JoAnn R. Bell, Robert L. Bell (Liz), and Terrie Shirley (Mitchell); his grandchildren, Trevor Benford, Anthony Bell, Beau Bell, Tayler Shirley, Tyler Shirley, and Erin Bell; his great-grandchildren, Thomas Bell, Keeton Updike, and Lainey Shirley; his sisters, Delores Ramsey and Carol Farr; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 PM Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in The Grant Chapel of Bryant-Grant Funeral Home with Rev. Ronnie Branson officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:30 - 2:00 PM prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Addington Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Anthony Bell, Tayler Shirley, Tyler Shirley, Kevin Brown, Robert Bell, and Gilbert Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Thomas Bell and Trevor Benford.

Online condolences may be made at www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bell family.