James Edward Bell

James Edward Bell

April 12,1944 to April 6, 2025

It is with a mix of sorrow and reflection that we announce the passing of James Edward Bell on April 6, 2025 in Albuquerque, NM. Born on 4-12-1944 in Charleston, West Virginia, Jim lived a life marked by resilience, hard work, and individuality.

After serving in the Army National Guard in his youth, Jim was known for his successful career as a construction professional working as a General Contractor in his own business and continuing on to work on large and (somewhat secret) government projects for both Sandia National Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico. Outside of work, he had a passion for all things motorized: boats, motorcycles, hot rods, race cars, and RVs, which brought him joy and connection with others. He also enjoyed the outdoors and fly fishing in particular, where he spun many a tale of his exceptional catches. His last few years were spent with his special friend Susan Thompson with whom he shared a home and many adventures along with their beloved dogs.

He maintained life long friendships with childhood friends as well as colleagues that became dear friends. Jim had a profound impact on those around him. His unique perspective and approach to life shaped the lives of his family and friends in meaningful ways.

He is survived by his two children and their spouses, Wendy & Eric Spalsbury and Wayne & Tammy Bell and his grandchildren Zachary Spalsbury, Rylee Johnson and Hannah Bell, along with his step children Michael and Kathy Armijo and grandchildren, Blaque, Brooklyn and Jonathan Armijo, Austin, Violet, Kennedy and Magnolia Gonzagowski, who will remember him with love and gratitude for the lessons he imparted and the memories they shared.

Jim will be remembered for his strengths, his challenges, and the legacy he leaves behind. May he rest peacefully in the arms of our Lord Jesus Christ.

His life will be celebrated on May 8, 2025 at 10:30am, at Daniel’s Family Funeral on Wyoming Blvd. with a brief graveside ceremony at Gate of Heaven Cemetery immediately following.