Lt. Col. Eddie L. Bell, 73, of De Soto died Jan. 10, 2024, in St. Louis. He was a retired Northwest High School teacher. Before becoming a teacher, he served in the U.S. Air Force. He was known for his dedication to the military and veterans. He was a member of the Amvets, American Legion and an honorary speaker at VFW. In his free time, he enjoyed cruising in his '67 Plymouth, traveling and fishing. Born Oct. 26, 1950, in Logan, W.Va., he was the son of the late Gordean (Cassidy) and Arthur Walther.
He is survived by a son: Wesley Bell of De Soto; a daughter: Whitney Martin of Hillsboro; Eileen Bell; a sister: Sherri Heckankamp of Ware; six grandchildren: Tyler, Wes Jr., Mary Kathryn, Claire, Bobbi-Jo and Cecelia; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by two sisters: Betty Josias and Francis Pueschel.
Visitation is scheduled from 10 a.m. until services at noon Saturday, Jan. 20, Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, 11441 Ware Church Road, in Hillsboro, officiated by John Kuykendall. Arrangements are under the direction of Mahn Funeral Home in De Soto.