Col Franklin Jackson Bell, U.S. Army (Ret.)

On the afternoon of Monday, February 26, 2018, Franklin Bell, 84, passed away peacefully.

Franklin was born on March 2, 1933 in Irwinton, Georgia to the late Thomas and Addie Mae Shepherd Bell. A Korean and Vietnam War Era Veteran, he proudly served in the United States Army as a Chief Logistics Officer. During his career, he was a distinguished Military graduate of Georgia Military College. He spent 28 years as an Army Officer in the U.S. Army Reserves. Much of this time was spent at the Pentagon in Washington D.C. Franklin received many medals of accommodation, the highest of which was “The Legion of Merit.” In addition, he received the MSM (Military Services Medal), Armed Forces Service Medal, and the Army Reserve Service Medal. During his career, he was nominated for General before retiring. Franklin retired from Robins Air Force Base after 34 years while serving in different capacities throughout his career. During this time, he also continued his education at Mercer University where he received his degree in Economics.

Franklin had a zest for life; he was the type of person that would “stop to smell the roses.” He enjoyed everything nature had to offer, traveling, and he really loved golf. However, Franklin’s favorite get-away was at his family farm where he enjoyed taking walks and reminiscing on his childhood.

Franklin was a romantic; he and his wife were truly the love of each other’s lives. He was a family man who would do anything for his wife and their family. Franklin was so full of passion and love, and he was sure he never met a stranger. He was so interested in even the simple things in life and was like a walking encyclopedia.

His daughter, Tomilyn Crowell, and brother, Thomas Bell, preceded him in death.

His memory will forever be treasured by his loving wife, Barbara Bell of Kathleen; son, Dr. Stephen F. Bell (Natalia) of Thomaston; stepchildren, Robert Grice, Jr. of Warner Robins, Michelle Chapman (Richard) of Bonaire, grandchildren, Chace Crowell, Ciera Crowell, Ashley McCorkle, McKenzie McCorkle, Eli Bell, Madelin Bell, Oliver Armour, Justin Armour; cousins, Johnny Bell, Polly Mohr, Sue Channell, and beloved pup, Sandy.

As a celebration of his life, the family will be holding a visitation on his 85th birthday, Friday, March 2, 2018, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at McCullough Funeral Home. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of McCullough. After the service, Franklin will be laid to rest in Irwinton Masonic Cemetery at 1:00pm with full military honors.

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with Mr. Bell’s arrangements.