John James Bell

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of John James (Gus) Bell, 90, who went home to the Lord and his beloved wife, Kay, on April 1, 2026 at AGH. John's sons were by his side at the time of his passing. John was a lifelong resident of the community, born on April 19, 1935 in Rural Valley, Pa., the son of the late Anthony N. And Anna Marie (Pickle) Bell. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving in Korea and worked at PPG Industries for 38 years. He was a member of St. Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe Roman Catholic Church in Kittanning, as well as the Knights of Columbus. He was also a lifetime member of the NRA. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was an avid reader and enjoyed all sports, especially the Pittsburgh sports teams including the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers and he loved Penn State Football. He loved his American Pit Bulls and his cat, Little Bart. John was a wonderful father. He was an exceptional athlete, playing baseball, football and basketball but baseball was his passion. John coached baseball at the Little League and Senior League levels. He enjoyed spending time with his family. He was married to his wife, Kay, nearly 58 years and they were inseparable during that time.

He leaves behind to forever cherish his memory: his sons, Eric J. Bell and Kirk J. Bell, both of Kittanning, and Randy T. Miller, of Lancaster, Pa.; brother, Ronald D. Bell and sister-in-law, Vonda M. Bell, of Yatesboro, Pa.; brother-in-law, Joe I. Haj, of Freeport, Pa.; and nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kay M. Bell; brother, Anthony N. Bell; and sisters, Mary Ann Bell, Margaret (Peggy) Bell and Virginia Connor.

At the request of John, visitation and funeral services were privately held by the family at the Snyder-Crissman Funeral Home in Kittanning with The Reverend Madhu Kodavatikanti officiating. Interment is in Kittanning Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in John's honor to Orphans of the Storm, P.O. Box 838, Kittanning, PA 16201. 

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