Fred Russell Bell, age 83, of Athens, passed peacefully Jan. 12, 2026, at his residence.
He was born in Athens on Dec. 16, 1942, son of the late George Hubert and Wynona Tindall Bell. He graduated from Athens High School in 1960 and from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1964. He served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968. Fred R. Bell and his family owned and operated Bell’s Food Stores in Athens and Northeast Georgia.
He was a member of Bridge Community Church, formerly Young Harris Memorial United Methodist Church, and served in various roles at the church over many years. He was a member of the University of Georgia Alumni Society and the YMCA.
Fred will be remembered for his dedication to the family business, commitment to his church and steadfast love of his family. He enjoyed the beach and pool, watching sports, especially the Bulldogs, and meals with family and friends.
He is survived by his loving partner, Denise M. Sims; three children: Russell P. Bell and wife Michele, Angela D. Bell and husband Rob, and Mark T. Bell and wife Amy; and five grandchildren: Matteo, Jacob, Caroline, Miles and Amelia.
The family received friends Saturday, Jan. 17, from noon until 2 p.m., at Bernstein Funeral Home in Athens.
The funeral followed in the chapel at Bernstein Funeral Home with the Rev. Dr. Luis Ortiz officiating. A private burial service was held at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Ralph Costa Jr., Mike Kelley, Steve Middlebrooks, and grandchildren Matteo Bell-Castile, Jacob Bell-Castile and Miles Bell.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Bridge Community Church, formerly Young Harris Memorial United Methodist Church, 973 Prince Avenue, Athens, GA 30606.
Bernstein Funeral Home had charge of arrangements.