Julius Steven Bell (aka "Pete")

It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we announce the passing of Julius Steven Bell, affectionately known to many as "Pete." Born on July 10, 1947, in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York, Pete left us on March 18, 2026, surrounded by family and love. Pete was the cherished son of the late Albert and Christine Bell, who instilled in him the values of kindness, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to family. He is predeceased by his beloved parents and his dear great-niece, Javashia Johnson, who all hold a special place in his heart. Pete was the beloved partner of Phyllis Anderson, the love of his life, who stood by his side through life's many journeys. Together, they shared a bond that was an inspiration to all who knew them. Pete's legacy continues through his devoted son, Steven Bell, and his precious grandchildren, to whom he was a guiding light and a source of endless joy. A proud alumnus of Boys High School in Brooklyn, Pete was a basketball star, earning a scholarship to further his education and athletic prowess at a college in Corpus Christi, Texas. Following his basketball dreams, he relocated to Texas, where he honed not only his athletic skills but also his remarkable character. Pete served his country with honor, having been drafted into the armed forces. He was honorably discharged, carrying the discipline and camaraderie of military life into his civilian pursuits. After his service, Pete dedicated his career to the Veteran's Administration, retiring as a respected supervisor. His professional life was marked by integrity, dedication, and a genuine desire to support those who had served the nation. A man of deep compassion, Pete devoted much of his time to counseling youth and recovering addicts. He was a treasured mentor, always ready to listen and offer sage advice to his nieces, nephews, and beyond. His legacy of empathy and understanding will be remembered by all who were fortunate to know him. Pete was a lover of sports, with a particular passion for basketball. He took great pleasure in watching games, always cheering on his favorite teams with the enthusiasm of a true fan. In his final years, Pete returned North, settling in Pennsylvania with Phyllis. Here, he found peace and contentment, surrounded by the family he adored and the friends who cherished him. Pete is survived by his loving sisters, Sylvia Brown and Hafeezah (Brenda) Bell, as well as his cherished nieces and nephews: Winnette Brown, Tracy Lowe, Jamella Johnson, Jaming Johnson, and Malik Bell. He also leaves behind his great nieces, Yanique, Jada, and Mykaela, and great nephews, Justin and Tavaun, who will forever carry his spirit in their hearts. His legacy extends to his great-great nieces, including Kataya, and his great-great nephew, Amir King, who will grow up surrounded by stories of his kindness and love. A host of extended family and friends will also feel the void of his absence. A service to celebrate Pete's remarkable life will be held on March 26, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Pete's honor to organizations dedicated to youth counseling and addiction recovery, causes close to his heart. Though we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, we find solace in the profound impact Pete had on the lives of those around him. His memory will forever be a blessing and a beacon of love.