David L. Bell passed away on September 20, 2025 in Mexico, MO.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. on Friday, October 10, 2025 at Arnold Funeral Home.

A private family graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at East Lawn Memorial Park.

David L. Bell, also known as David Little Bell, was born on October 3, 1930, in Columbia, MO.  His parents were John Wesley and Winnie Ruth (Drane) Bell.  He grew up working hard on the family farm near Woodlandville, MO.  He attended Everett School, Jeff Junior High School and graduated from David Hickman High School in 1950.  After high school graduation he enlisted in the US Air Force where he helped rebuild France during the Korean Conflict.

After his discharge from the service, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Ag-Education at the University of Missouri with the GI Bill.  David also worked in construction through all his college years.  His first teaching job after college graduation was at Wellsville-Middletown High School for two years.  Then he moved to Mexico High School, where he taught for 36 years retiring in 1995.  During this time, he also earned his Master's Degree in Science Education, and another degree in Guidance Counseling, which qualified him to be employed as a High School counselor at Mexico High School.  While working at Mexico High School, David also coached several sports including junior high football, 9th grade boys basketball, varsity track & field, along with golf for boys and girls.  After retiring in 1995, he drove a school bus route for numerous years.

On June 21, 1953, he married Shirley Hall, and together they raised 4 children:  Julie, Jerry, Joni and Jay.

He married Cheryl Maupin on Feb 29, 1980, who preceded him in death in 2024.  They enjoyed many years together with over 44 years of marriage.

In his retirement years, he enjoyed yardwork, delivering Meals on Wheels, along with painting and light construction jobs.  He was most at home working on his tractor. He also enjoyed splitting and preparing  wood for use in the winter.  He was passionate about MU Tiger football, St. Louis Cardinal baseball, and Chiefs football.  He spent numerous years attending St. Louis Cardinals Spring Training in Florida with his son, Jay, and others.  Another highlight was his Honor Flight in 2013, "a trip that changed my life."

His children survive:  Julie (Les) Key of Mexico, Jerry (Debbie) Bell of Overland Park, KS, Joni (John) Troyer of Columbia, Jay (Paula Wayne) Bell of Bradenton, FL, and stepdaughter, Sundy (Vince) Fuemmeler of Mexico.  Grandchildren:  Nicole (Dhruv) Bell of Mumbai, India, Amanda Bell of Mission, KS, Jack Bell of St. Joseph, Michigan, Holly (Matthew) Caldwell of Abilene, TX; Luke (Hannah) Troyer of Columbia; Lesli Key of Denver CO; and step-grandchildren Jake (Lexi) Fuemmeler of St. Louis, MO; Brock (Whitney) Fuemmeler of Mexico and great grandchildren Colton and Ryleigh Caldwell of Abilene, TX.  He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, David was preceded in death by his parents and all of his siblings, including, brothers:  Nelson Bell and wife Anna; and John Wesley Bell Jr.; Sisters: Alma Miller and husband Glenn; Anita Semon and husband Henry; and Mariana Langwell and husband Sam.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Audrain Humane Society or St. Brendan Church in Mexico. Memorials may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 South Jefferson St., Mexico, MO 65265.