Thomas Lee Bell, affectionately known as "Lee Bell" was born January 5, 1940 in Norfolk County (Chesapeake), to the late Tom Bell and Ethel Nixon-Bell. He was called to rest on March 9, 2016.

Lee attended Crestwood High School. In 1961, Lee married his soul mate Mildred Nixon. He was a hardworking man that spent 30+ years with Sprinkle Masonry before retiring in 2005. He was known by many as being a no nonsense kind of man. Lee was a family oriented husband, father, grandfather, and friend loved by many. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.

Lee was preceded in death by Katrina Bell-Saunders (daughter), Coolidge Saunders (son-in –law), Kinyatta Bell (grand-daughter), Francis Minor (daughter), Roy Bell (brother), Frances Stevenson (sister), Clara Bright (sister), and Mary Bell (sister).

He leaves to cherish his memory, a loving wife Mildred Bell of Chesapeake; daughter, Latonya Bell of Chesapeake; grandchildren, Jabre Bell and Serenity Wilder; goddaughter, Kanesha Washington (Sydni & Terrence); aunt, Pauline Smith of Chesapeake; sister, Cecilia Bell Of Kansas City, MO; brothers, Herman Bell and Joe Bell of Kansas City, MO; 4 memorable brother-in-laws; 10 memorable sister-in-laws; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was well loved and his memory will live forever in our hearts.

A funeral service will be held 12 noon Saturday at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake. Viewing will be 4-7pm Friday at the funeral home.