Memorial services for Wilbur Hester Bell, 89 will be Thursday, May 24, 2018 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. in the Welch Funeral Home Chapel, with the funeral service immediately following. Dr. Chip Stevens will conduct the service.

Mr. Bell died May 20, 2018 at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, MS.

He was born in Choctaw County on February 8, 1929 to Homer V. and Hattie Pearl Bell. Except for a few years in Pascagoula during World War II, he lived in Starkville all of his life. He graduated from Starkville High School and was employed at Mississippi State University Extension Service. He had many friends and enjoyed photographing weddings. He also enjoyed travelling with family. He was a long-time member of First Baptist Church in Starkville.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a nephew, Charles R. Bell; and a niece, Cynthia A. Bell.

He is survived by his brothers, Dr. Charles V. Bell (Edna) of Angwin, CA and Dr. Marion R. (Randy) Bell (Nancy) of Leland, MS; nephews, Michael Bell, Carey Bell, and David Bell; great nephews, Christian Bell, Miles-Eric Bell, Kramer Scott Bell, and Jonathon Gray; great nieces, Carly Jo Bell and Susan Gray; and special caretakers and cousins, Katherine and Gaylon Alford.

Memorial donations may be made to: First Baptist Church 106 E. Lampkin St., Starkville, MS 39759.