Benjamin's parents were:
Robert Simon Bell (1851 - 1907)
Ezetta Bernice Buck Attebery (1872 - 1952)
Ben & his siblings:
Benjamin "Ben" Chrisman Bell 1891–1948
James Thomas Bell 1894–1968
Addie Bell 1898–1992
-----
On June 7, 1900,
Benjamin C., age 8, lived in Woodville, Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory with his parents, Robert S. & Ezetta B., ages 49 & 29. His parents had been married 10 years; his mother had given birth to 4 children - only 3 were living. His father was a general merchandise salesman. His siblings were James T., age 6, & Addie, 1.
-----
Ben's father died in Woodville on July 23, 1907.
On April 23/24, 1910,
Ben, age 18, lived with his widowed, mother, Zettie Bell, age 37, who owned a farm in in Odell, Marshall Co, OK. His mother had given birth to 5 children, but only 3 were living: James & Addie, ages 15 & 11. Ben & his brother, James, helped support their family by home farming.
-----
Ben & his mother, and sister, Addie, moved to Sherman, TX sometime later.
Ben, age 25, single, lived at 323 North Lee Avenue in Sherman, TX with his mother, who he supported, when he enlisted for the WWI Draft on June 5, 1917. He worked as a printer at Sherman Print Company, in Sherman. The record showed that he was born on September 21, 1891. He was described as tall with medium build, having blue eyes, & light colored hair. His name was signed "Ben Bell."
-----
On January 13, 1920,
Ben, age 27, single, lived with his mother, Zettie Bell, age 47, who owned a home, mortgage free, on Vaden Street in Sherman Precinct 6, Grayson Co, TX. He was self-employed as a printer. His sister, Addie, 21, single, worked as a stenographer in a bank.
-----
Bonham Daily Favorite (TX)
Tuesday, March 29, 1921
SOUTH SIDE NOTES
"Rev. Ben Bell and his mother, Mrs. Zetta Bell, spent yesterday in Sherman."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, May 20, 192
"SMITH-FREEMAN
A pretty wedding was solemnized Wednesday night, at 8 o'clock, at the South Side Methodist church, when Mr. Collie Smith and Miss Fannie Freeman were united in marriage. Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the church officiated in an impressive manner, using the beautiful ring ceremony. ... "
Bonham Daily Favorite
Wednesday, June 15, 1921
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist church in South Bonham, left this morning for Dallas to attend summer school at the Southern Methodist University."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, July 1, 1921
"Rev. Ben Bell returned yesterday afternoon from Dallas, where he has been attending the School of Theology at the Southern Methodist University."
Ben married Ruby Simmons in Sherman, Grayson Co, TX on December 21, 1921.
Bonham Daily Favorite
Wednesday, March 22, 1922
"Rev. Benn Bell and W.L. Sasser are in Honey Grove attending a church conference."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, September 22, 1922
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the South Bonham Methodist church, returned to Sherman last night after the service. His wife and baby have been in that city for several days and his baby is reported quite ill."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Tuesday, March 6, 1923
"Rev. Ben Bell has returned from Sherman. He reports his little child and his sister improving after several days' illness."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Saturday, December 20, 1924
"Rev. Ben Bell, who for some time was pastor of Clark Memorial church was a caller at the Favorite office today. Mr. Bell came down from Howe, where he is now pastor, to conduct the funeral of T.F. Sledge, who died at Edhube. Mr. Bell has many friends in Bonham and Fannin County."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Saturday, February 28, 1925,
"Clark Memorial Methodist - South Bonham
B.F. Pritchett, Pastor
Sunday School (:45
Preaching 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Epworth League 6:30
Our former pastor Rev. Ben Bell will preach for us at these services."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, August 12, 1926
"REVIVAL MEETING AT ORANGEVILLE
A revival meeting of community-wide interest began last Monday night at the Methodist Church at Orangeville. The meeting is being held on the school ground and the open air evening services make it more comfortable and interesting to those who attend and to those who are charged with the responsibilty of leadership. The day services are being conducted in the church house, at 10 o'clock each day.
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist Church at Howe, is assisting the pastor, Rev. Harold Schmitzer, in the meeting. The ministers are leading the singing. Good crowds are reported in attendance upon the services and much interest is manifest."
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, March 13, 1928
"SIBLEY-TAYLOR W.M.S. PLANS ALL-DAY MEET
The Sibley-Taylor W.M.S. met at the tabernacle Monday afternoon for Bible study with the pastor, Rev. Ben Bell, conducting the lesson on John 11-13. The meeting opened by the assembly sing, 'More Love to Thee,' and a prayer by Mrs. J.E. Gilbreath. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, April 3, 1928
"Willis-Miller Marriage Announced
Announcement is made of the marriage of Benjamin L. Willis and Miss Mabel Rosa Miller which took place Monday afternoon a the home of the Rev. Ben Bell, 2308 Broad. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, April 5, 1928
"Sibley-Taylor Church to Celebrate Lord's supper Thursday night
There will be a communion service at the Sibley-Taylor Methodist church at 8 o'clock Thursday evening celebrating the day the Lord's supper was instituted.
On Friday evening the church will be lighted by an illuminated cross with all other lights out. Mrs. H.H. Vining will sing 'Near the Cross, which will be followed gy a prayer.
There have been good sized crowds at the services being held each evening this week, according to the report of the Rev. Ben Bell, pastor."
On April 7, 1930,
Ben & Ruby B. Bell, ages 38 & 33, were renting a home on Yale Street in Wichita Falls, (Ward of City Sibley Taylor), Wichita Co, TX for $25. He was the Pastor in a Methodist Church. They had a daughter, Mary J., age 7, & s son, Billie B., 1 year & 3 months old.
-----
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, September 22, 1931
"Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Hosts at Party
Mr. and Mrs. Ira B. Lynn entertained members of the senior Epworth league of the Wilson Memorial Methodist church at their home Monday evening. Games were played and gifts presented to Rev. Benn Bell, pastor of the church in observation of his birthday. Refreshments were served to about 20 members."
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, November 5, 1931
"LARGE CROWD ATTENDS RECEPTION FOR PASTOR
One hundred members and friends of Wilson Memorial Methodist church gathered at the church Wednesday evening for a reception to Rev. Ben Bell and family, who have recently been returned to the pastorate of the church for the fifth year.
Addresses of welcome were extended the minister and his family by heads of the various departments of the church. The laity of the church was represented by W.A. Lynn, lay leader for the congregation, by Mrs. Lena Wilcox, president of the woman's missionary society. To these addresses of welcome, Rev. Bell responded most happily. Following this service a generous shower of groceries were carried into the parsonage by those in attendance. Refreshments were served to the company by ladies of the church."
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, December 15, 1931
"HARVEST DAY PROGRAM AT WILSON MEMORIAL
Members of Wilson Memorial Methodist Woman's Missionary society met at the church Monday in a Harvest day program when Rev. Ben Bell gave an interesting devotional and Mrs. Ben Bell played a piano number. Each officer gave a splendid report of the year's work. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, February 28, 1933
"WILSON MEMORIAL WOMEN HAVE MEETING
Members of the Wilson Memorial Methodist Woman's Missionary society met at the church in a business session Monday and the Rev. Ben Bell opened the meeting with prayer. Mrs. Bell gave the devotional and each one present gave a sentence prayer in behalf of the revival which is to begin at the church Sunday. ... "
Mckinney Daily Courier Gazette
Friday, September 7, 1934
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist church at Frisco and wife were McKinney visitors Thursday. He is having a fairly good year as spiritual leader of his church, which owns and worships in a modern brick church building that would be a credit to a town of much larger size than Frisco. Rev. Mr. Bell had a good revival meeting during the summer at which he had a good number of conversions, reclamations and additions."
Mckinney Daily Courier Gazette
Wednesday, July 8, 1936
"REV. BELL'S FINE MESSAGES SOUTH WILCOX REVIVAL
Holds Meeting For The Pastor, Rev. F.A. Ray
Rev. Ben Bell of Frisco, who is conducting a week's revival meeting at the South Wilcox Street Methodist Church, has been bringing some splendid inspirational messages to large congregations each evening. The services begin at 8 o'clock and open with fine song services by the church choir, with the Pastor, Rev. F.A. Ray, assisting as director. ... "
In 1935 they lived in Frisco, Collin Co, TX.
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, April 27, 1939
"Rev. Ben Bell entered upon his work Sunday as pastor of the Methodist Church, and other churches of the town dismissed their evening services to attend the Methodist Church. Mr. Bell came here from Leonard, succeeding Rev. Joe M. Connally who was transferred to Decatur. Mr. Bell has two children in school at Leonard, Mary Jane and Billie Ben, and they will remain in Leonard with Mrs. Bell until the close of school, spending the week-ends here. Mr. Bell has been a Methodist minister for about 20 years, having served churches at Sherman, Bonham, Howe, Wichita Falls and Frisco before going to in Leonard in 1936."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, September 28, 1939
"Search for an escaped lunatic by state police officers created quite a bit of excitement among householders here Monday. The man, dressed in a white uniform worn by inmates of state institutions, was seen on the streets here by several persons, and was reported to have purchased fruit at a local store.
Charley Guinn, local painter, dressed in white coveralls similar to state uniforms, was sitting on the curb on the main drag talking to Rev. Ben Bell, when a state police car drove by. Seeing the white uniform, the officers returned to investigate, but Guinn convinced them that he was not a lunatic and had not escaped from anywhere. He told them he had seen a man answering the description of the fugitive, and volunteered to help search for him which he did. The lunatic was not captured, however, and since that time housewives have been keeping their screens latched night and day."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, March 21, 1940
"HI-Y MEETS
Regular meeting of the Hi-U club was held in the gym on Monday night, March 11, at 7 o'clock.
Because of so many absentees the club went right into the program. Rev. Ben Bell made a talk on life and the little things that make life. ... "
The following Federal Census record showed that Ben had completed 3 years of college.
On April 11, 1940,
Rev. Ben & Ruby, ages 48 & 44, paid $15 per month to rent a home on Maple Street in Whitewright, Grayson Co, TX. He was still in the ministry. Their children were Mary Jane, age 17 & Billie Ben, 11. Two public school teachers, single, who boarded with them were Mons Sullivan & Marrella Tatum, ages 29.
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, October 24, 1940
"METHODISTS CLOSE CONFERENCE YEAR
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist Church, and family will go to Greenville Friday to attend the annual meeting of the North Texas Conference, which will convene in that city Friday for the annual session. At the conference the regular business of the church will be attended to and pastors for the various charges in the districts assigned for the coming year.
Rev. Bell has been pastor of the Methodist Church here one and a half years, coming here from Leonard. He succeeded Rev. Joe M. Connally, who was sent to Decatur to fill a vacancy in the pastorate of the Methodist Church there.
Under the leadership of Rev. Mr Bell the church has mad e progress, and he will be able to give a good report to conference. His report will show all quotas assigned the church paid in full and the church free of debt. The report will show that the women's society of the church has done good work the past year and has contributed liberally to the support of the church, missions, orphans home and other activities of the church.
During his pastorate here Rev. Bell has made man;y friends who would be pleased to see him returned for another year."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, October 31, 1940
"NEW PASTOR FOR LOCAL CHURCH; BELL PROMOTED
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Whitewright Methodist Church for the past eighteen months, was assigned to the Archer City Methodist Church by the North Texas Methodist conference at the closing session Wednesday at Greenville. Archer City is the county seat of Archer County. The appointment carries a substantial increase in salary for Rev. Mr. Bell. During his pastorate here Rev. Bell and family have made made friends, who wish for them success and happiness in their new field. ... "
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, November 7, 1940
"NEW PASTOR
Dr. Alan Harvey-Brooks, new pastor of the First Methodist Church, occupied the pulpit of that church for the first time Sunday morning, and was greeted by a large congregation. He came to Whitewright from Byers, a charge in the western part of the North Texas Conference, and succeeds Rev. Ben Bell, who was transferred to Archer City. ... "
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, May 31, 1946
"Clark Memorial Methodist
Revival meeting will begin Sunday morning, June 2 and will last through June 11, Rev. Ben Bell of the First Methodist Church in Greenville will be our guest speaker. Rev. Bell is a former pastor of the church and is loved by all who know him. ... "
Paris News
Monday, November 4, 1946
"METHODIST PASTORS DRAW ASSIGNMENTS
Dallas - The appointments of 250 Methodist pastors in the North Texas Conference of the First Methodist Church were announced here yesterday by Bishop Charles C. Selecman. ....
Calvary Church in Paris will have a new psstor, the Rev. Ben Bell, replacing the Rev. W.W. Pittman, who has been appointed to the Archer City Church in the Wichita Falls district. ... "
Paris News
Sunday, May 11, 1947
"BANQUET HELD BY CALVARY CHURCH MEN
The Rev. Walter H. Vanderpool, pastor of the First Methodist Church, was principal speaker at the banquet for the men of the Calvary Methodist Church and their guests Thursday evening in the church basement.
Bowls of bluebonnets, roses and honeysuckle decorated the room. Plate favors were hand-printed Bibles.
The Rev. Ben Bell was toastmaster. The Rev. H.C. Hoy, district superintendent, gave the opening prayer. The Rev. Bell, accompanied by Mrs. Bell, played several violin selections. The benediction was given by the Rev. M.C. Bates of Pattonville. Members of the Woman's Society of Christian Service prepared and served the meal."
Paris News
Thursday, September 11, 1947
"The Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of Calvary Methodist Church, left Thursday for a business trip to Sherman. He will return Saturday, accompanied by Mrs. Bell, who has been in Sherman on business this week."
Paris News
Monday, June 7, 1948
"TWO PARIS METHODIST MINISTERS TRANSFERRED
... . The Rev. William E. Howell, pastor of Arcadia Park Methodist Church, Dallas was named pastor of Calvary Church here, succeeding the Rev. Ben Bell, who goes to the Van Alstyne Methodist Church in the Sherman District. The Rev. Bell came to Paris in November, 1946, from Greenville. ... "
Ben & Ruby were living in Van Alstyne, Grayson Co, TX when he was admitted to St. Vincent Hospital in Sherman. He died from a Coronary Occlusion at 2:15 a.m. on July 22, 1938. He had lived 56 years, 8 months, & 1 day. His wife, Ruby Bell of Van Alstyne, was the informant on his death record. He was buried on July 25th.
Obituaries from around Texas were published about his death.
Paris News
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"REV. BEN C. BELL, FORMERLY CALVARY PASTOR HERE, DIES
Sherman - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56 pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist Church, died Thursday.
He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six years; Frisco, three years, Greenville, two years, and at Bonham, Archer City and Leonard.
The Rev. Bell served as pastor of Calvary Methodist Church her from November 1946, until June of this year. He came to Paris from the Lee Street Church at Greenville.
Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 4 o'clock at the Key Memorial Church in Sherman.
Survivors include his wife and two children, Mrs. David E. burns and Bill Ben Bell, both of Sherman.
-----
Evening Journal
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"VAN ALSTYNE PASTOR IS TAKEN BY DEATH
Sherman, July 22 - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist church, died today.
He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris, where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six year; Frisco, Three years; Greenville, two years, and at Bohnam, Archer city and Leonard."
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"REV. BEN BELL DIES AT VAN ALSTYNE
Rev. Ben Bell, 56, first pastor of the Wesley Methodist Church in Wichita Falls, died Thursday in Van Alstyne, where he was pastor of the Methodist Church.
Bell came to Wichita in the fall of 1927 from Howe and remained here six years, during which time he helped build the present Wesley Methodist Church, 2300 Holiday.
He was married and had two daughters. Van Alstyne was Bell's home town. A Sunday school class at the Wesley Church here has been named in his honor."
Lubbock Morning Avalanche
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"VAN ALSTYNE PASTOR IS TAKEN BY DEATH
Sherman, July 22 - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist church, died today. He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris, where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six years; Frisco, three years; Greenville, two years, and at Bonham, Archer City and Leonard."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, July 29, 1948
"Rev. Ben C. Bell
Funeral services were held at 4 p.m. Friday in Sherman for Rev. Ben C.Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist Church, (unable to read parts of article, which is torn and unaligned).
Survivors are his wife and Billy Ben of the United States of San Diego, Calif.; one daughter, David E. Burns of Sherman; Mrs. Zettie Buck Atteberry of Dolman; brother, J.T. Bell of ? and sister, Mrs. T.F. Aston of ?"
Paris News
Thursday, July 29, 1948
Roxton
"The Rev. and Mrs. T.H. Browning were in Sherman Friday to attend the funeral of the Rev. Ben Bell, formerly of Paris."
His obituary follows:
"Reverend Ben Bell
Ben Bell was born at Woodville, Indian Territory, Oklahoma, September 21, 1891, a son of Mr. and Mrs. R.S. Bell and the grandson of pioneer educator and missionary to the
Chickasaw Indians.
The Rev. Robert Scott Bell was converted to the church at Woodville in 1913. He was married to Miss Ruby Simmons of Sherman, Texas, in 1921. He was admitted to the itinerant ministry at Key Memorial Methodist Church, Sherman, Texas, in 1919.
He was ordained an Elder at Gainesville in 1923, Bishop Moore presiding, and was educated at Wesley College, Greenville, Austin College, Sherman, and Southern Methodist University.
His pastorates included the following appointments: Sherman Mission, Clark Memorial at Bonham,Howe, Sibley-Taylor at Wichita Falls, Frisco, Leonard, Whitewright, Archer City,
Lee Street at Greenville, Calvary at Paris, and Van Alstyne.
Rev. Bell went to his eternal home July 22, 1948. He was survived by his wife, one son, Billy Ben; one daughter, Mary Jane (Mrs. David Burns); his mother, Mrs. Ezetta Atteberry; one brother, J.T. Bell; one sister, Mrs. T.F. Aston."
Ruby was a patient in the Sherman Community Hospital when she died at 5:45 a.m. on December 28, 1960, from Multiple Cerebral Emboli. She had lived 64 years, 11 months, & 9 days. She was buried on December 29th.
Robert Simon Bell (1851 - 1907)
Ezetta Bernice Buck Attebery (1872 - 1952)
Ben & his siblings:
Benjamin "Ben" Chrisman Bell 1891–1948
James Thomas Bell 1894–1968
Addie Bell 1898–1992
-----
On June 7, 1900,
Benjamin C., age 8, lived in Woodville, Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory with his parents, Robert S. & Ezetta B., ages 49 & 29. His parents had been married 10 years; his mother had given birth to 4 children - only 3 were living. His father was a general merchandise salesman. His siblings were James T., age 6, & Addie, 1.
-----
Ben's father died in Woodville on July 23, 1907.
On April 23/24, 1910,
Ben, age 18, lived with his widowed, mother, Zettie Bell, age 37, who owned a farm in in Odell, Marshall Co, OK. His mother had given birth to 5 children, but only 3 were living: James & Addie, ages 15 & 11. Ben & his brother, James, helped support their family by home farming.
-----
Ben & his mother, and sister, Addie, moved to Sherman, TX sometime later.
Ben, age 25, single, lived at 323 North Lee Avenue in Sherman, TX with his mother, who he supported, when he enlisted for the WWI Draft on June 5, 1917. He worked as a printer at Sherman Print Company, in Sherman. The record showed that he was born on September 21, 1891. He was described as tall with medium build, having blue eyes, & light colored hair. His name was signed "Ben Bell."
-----
On January 13, 1920,
Ben, age 27, single, lived with his mother, Zettie Bell, age 47, who owned a home, mortgage free, on Vaden Street in Sherman Precinct 6, Grayson Co, TX. He was self-employed as a printer. His sister, Addie, 21, single, worked as a stenographer in a bank.
-----
Bonham Daily Favorite (TX)
Tuesday, March 29, 1921
SOUTH SIDE NOTES
"Rev. Ben Bell and his mother, Mrs. Zetta Bell, spent yesterday in Sherman."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, May 20, 192
"SMITH-FREEMAN
A pretty wedding was solemnized Wednesday night, at 8 o'clock, at the South Side Methodist church, when Mr. Collie Smith and Miss Fannie Freeman were united in marriage. Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the church officiated in an impressive manner, using the beautiful ring ceremony. ... "
Bonham Daily Favorite
Wednesday, June 15, 1921
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist church in South Bonham, left this morning for Dallas to attend summer school at the Southern Methodist University."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, July 1, 1921
"Rev. Ben Bell returned yesterday afternoon from Dallas, where he has been attending the School of Theology at the Southern Methodist University."
Ben married Ruby Simmons in Sherman, Grayson Co, TX on December 21, 1921.
Bonham Daily Favorite
Wednesday, March 22, 1922
"Rev. Benn Bell and W.L. Sasser are in Honey Grove attending a church conference."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, September 22, 1922
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the South Bonham Methodist church, returned to Sherman last night after the service. His wife and baby have been in that city for several days and his baby is reported quite ill."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Tuesday, March 6, 1923
"Rev. Ben Bell has returned from Sherman. He reports his little child and his sister improving after several days' illness."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Saturday, December 20, 1924
"Rev. Ben Bell, who for some time was pastor of Clark Memorial church was a caller at the Favorite office today. Mr. Bell came down from Howe, where he is now pastor, to conduct the funeral of T.F. Sledge, who died at Edhube. Mr. Bell has many friends in Bonham and Fannin County."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Saturday, February 28, 1925,
"Clark Memorial Methodist - South Bonham
B.F. Pritchett, Pastor
Sunday School (:45
Preaching 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Epworth League 6:30
Our former pastor Rev. Ben Bell will preach for us at these services."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, August 12, 1926
"REVIVAL MEETING AT ORANGEVILLE
A revival meeting of community-wide interest began last Monday night at the Methodist Church at Orangeville. The meeting is being held on the school ground and the open air evening services make it more comfortable and interesting to those who attend and to those who are charged with the responsibilty of leadership. The day services are being conducted in the church house, at 10 o'clock each day.
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist Church at Howe, is assisting the pastor, Rev. Harold Schmitzer, in the meeting. The ministers are leading the singing. Good crowds are reported in attendance upon the services and much interest is manifest."
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, March 13, 1928
"SIBLEY-TAYLOR W.M.S. PLANS ALL-DAY MEET
The Sibley-Taylor W.M.S. met at the tabernacle Monday afternoon for Bible study with the pastor, Rev. Ben Bell, conducting the lesson on John 11-13. The meeting opened by the assembly sing, 'More Love to Thee,' and a prayer by Mrs. J.E. Gilbreath. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, April 3, 1928
"Willis-Miller Marriage Announced
Announcement is made of the marriage of Benjamin L. Willis and Miss Mabel Rosa Miller which took place Monday afternoon a the home of the Rev. Ben Bell, 2308 Broad. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, April 5, 1928
"Sibley-Taylor Church to Celebrate Lord's supper Thursday night
There will be a communion service at the Sibley-Taylor Methodist church at 8 o'clock Thursday evening celebrating the day the Lord's supper was instituted.
On Friday evening the church will be lighted by an illuminated cross with all other lights out. Mrs. H.H. Vining will sing 'Near the Cross, which will be followed gy a prayer.
There have been good sized crowds at the services being held each evening this week, according to the report of the Rev. Ben Bell, pastor."
On April 7, 1930,
Ben & Ruby B. Bell, ages 38 & 33, were renting a home on Yale Street in Wichita Falls, (Ward of City Sibley Taylor), Wichita Co, TX for $25. He was the Pastor in a Methodist Church. They had a daughter, Mary J., age 7, & s son, Billie B., 1 year & 3 months old.
-----
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, September 22, 1931
"Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Hosts at Party
Mr. and Mrs. Ira B. Lynn entertained members of the senior Epworth league of the Wilson Memorial Methodist church at their home Monday evening. Games were played and gifts presented to Rev. Benn Bell, pastor of the church in observation of his birthday. Refreshments were served to about 20 members."
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, November 5, 1931
"LARGE CROWD ATTENDS RECEPTION FOR PASTOR
One hundred members and friends of Wilson Memorial Methodist church gathered at the church Wednesday evening for a reception to Rev. Ben Bell and family, who have recently been returned to the pastorate of the church for the fifth year.
Addresses of welcome were extended the minister and his family by heads of the various departments of the church. The laity of the church was represented by W.A. Lynn, lay leader for the congregation, by Mrs. Lena Wilcox, president of the woman's missionary society. To these addresses of welcome, Rev. Bell responded most happily. Following this service a generous shower of groceries were carried into the parsonage by those in attendance. Refreshments were served to the company by ladies of the church."
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, December 15, 1931
"HARVEST DAY PROGRAM AT WILSON MEMORIAL
Members of Wilson Memorial Methodist Woman's Missionary society met at the church Monday in a Harvest day program when Rev. Ben Bell gave an interesting devotional and Mrs. Ben Bell played a piano number. Each officer gave a splendid report of the year's work. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, February 28, 1933
"WILSON MEMORIAL WOMEN HAVE MEETING
Members of the Wilson Memorial Methodist Woman's Missionary society met at the church in a business session Monday and the Rev. Ben Bell opened the meeting with prayer. Mrs. Bell gave the devotional and each one present gave a sentence prayer in behalf of the revival which is to begin at the church Sunday. ... "
Mckinney Daily Courier Gazette
Friday, September 7, 1934
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist church at Frisco and wife were McKinney visitors Thursday. He is having a fairly good year as spiritual leader of his church, which owns and worships in a modern brick church building that would be a credit to a town of much larger size than Frisco. Rev. Mr. Bell had a good revival meeting during the summer at which he had a good number of conversions, reclamations and additions."
Mckinney Daily Courier Gazette
Wednesday, July 8, 1936
"REV. BELL'S FINE MESSAGES SOUTH WILCOX REVIVAL
Holds Meeting For The Pastor, Rev. F.A. Ray
Rev. Ben Bell of Frisco, who is conducting a week's revival meeting at the South Wilcox Street Methodist Church, has been bringing some splendid inspirational messages to large congregations each evening. The services begin at 8 o'clock and open with fine song services by the church choir, with the Pastor, Rev. F.A. Ray, assisting as director. ... "
In 1935 they lived in Frisco, Collin Co, TX.
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, April 27, 1939
"Rev. Ben Bell entered upon his work Sunday as pastor of the Methodist Church, and other churches of the town dismissed their evening services to attend the Methodist Church. Mr. Bell came here from Leonard, succeeding Rev. Joe M. Connally who was transferred to Decatur. Mr. Bell has two children in school at Leonard, Mary Jane and Billie Ben, and they will remain in Leonard with Mrs. Bell until the close of school, spending the week-ends here. Mr. Bell has been a Methodist minister for about 20 years, having served churches at Sherman, Bonham, Howe, Wichita Falls and Frisco before going to in Leonard in 1936."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, September 28, 1939
"Search for an escaped lunatic by state police officers created quite a bit of excitement among householders here Monday. The man, dressed in a white uniform worn by inmates of state institutions, was seen on the streets here by several persons, and was reported to have purchased fruit at a local store.
Charley Guinn, local painter, dressed in white coveralls similar to state uniforms, was sitting on the curb on the main drag talking to Rev. Ben Bell, when a state police car drove by. Seeing the white uniform, the officers returned to investigate, but Guinn convinced them that he was not a lunatic and had not escaped from anywhere. He told them he had seen a man answering the description of the fugitive, and volunteered to help search for him which he did. The lunatic was not captured, however, and since that time housewives have been keeping their screens latched night and day."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, March 21, 1940
"HI-Y MEETS
Regular meeting of the Hi-U club was held in the gym on Monday night, March 11, at 7 o'clock.
Because of so many absentees the club went right into the program. Rev. Ben Bell made a talk on life and the little things that make life. ... "
The following Federal Census record showed that Ben had completed 3 years of college.
On April 11, 1940,
Rev. Ben & Ruby, ages 48 & 44, paid $15 per month to rent a home on Maple Street in Whitewright, Grayson Co, TX. He was still in the ministry. Their children were Mary Jane, age 17 & Billie Ben, 11. Two public school teachers, single, who boarded with them were Mons Sullivan & Marrella Tatum, ages 29.
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, October 24, 1940
"METHODISTS CLOSE CONFERENCE YEAR
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist Church, and family will go to Greenville Friday to attend the annual meeting of the North Texas Conference, which will convene in that city Friday for the annual session. At the conference the regular business of the church will be attended to and pastors for the various charges in the districts assigned for the coming year.
Rev. Bell has been pastor of the Methodist Church here one and a half years, coming here from Leonard. He succeeded Rev. Joe M. Connally, who was sent to Decatur to fill a vacancy in the pastorate of the Methodist Church there.
Under the leadership of Rev. Mr Bell the church has mad e progress, and he will be able to give a good report to conference. His report will show all quotas assigned the church paid in full and the church free of debt. The report will show that the women's society of the church has done good work the past year and has contributed liberally to the support of the church, missions, orphans home and other activities of the church.
During his pastorate here Rev. Bell has made man;y friends who would be pleased to see him returned for another year."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, October 31, 1940
"NEW PASTOR FOR LOCAL CHURCH; BELL PROMOTED
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Whitewright Methodist Church for the past eighteen months, was assigned to the Archer City Methodist Church by the North Texas Methodist conference at the closing session Wednesday at Greenville. Archer City is the county seat of Archer County. The appointment carries a substantial increase in salary for Rev. Mr. Bell. During his pastorate here Rev. Bell and family have made made friends, who wish for them success and happiness in their new field. ... "
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, November 7, 1940
"NEW PASTOR
Dr. Alan Harvey-Brooks, new pastor of the First Methodist Church, occupied the pulpit of that church for the first time Sunday morning, and was greeted by a large congregation. He came to Whitewright from Byers, a charge in the western part of the North Texas Conference, and succeeds Rev. Ben Bell, who was transferred to Archer City. ... "
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, May 31, 1946
"Clark Memorial Methodist
Revival meeting will begin Sunday morning, June 2 and will last through June 11, Rev. Ben Bell of the First Methodist Church in Greenville will be our guest speaker. Rev. Bell is a former pastor of the church and is loved by all who know him. ... "
Paris News
Monday, November 4, 1946
"METHODIST PASTORS DRAW ASSIGNMENTS
Dallas - The appointments of 250 Methodist pastors in the North Texas Conference of the First Methodist Church were announced here yesterday by Bishop Charles C. Selecman. ....
Calvary Church in Paris will have a new psstor, the Rev. Ben Bell, replacing the Rev. W.W. Pittman, who has been appointed to the Archer City Church in the Wichita Falls district. ... "
Paris News
Sunday, May 11, 1947
"BANQUET HELD BY CALVARY CHURCH MEN
The Rev. Walter H. Vanderpool, pastor of the First Methodist Church, was principal speaker at the banquet for the men of the Calvary Methodist Church and their guests Thursday evening in the church basement.
Bowls of bluebonnets, roses and honeysuckle decorated the room. Plate favors were hand-printed Bibles.
The Rev. Ben Bell was toastmaster. The Rev. H.C. Hoy, district superintendent, gave the opening prayer. The Rev. Bell, accompanied by Mrs. Bell, played several violin selections. The benediction was given by the Rev. M.C. Bates of Pattonville. Members of the Woman's Society of Christian Service prepared and served the meal."
Paris News
Thursday, September 11, 1947
"The Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of Calvary Methodist Church, left Thursday for a business trip to Sherman. He will return Saturday, accompanied by Mrs. Bell, who has been in Sherman on business this week."
Paris News
Monday, June 7, 1948
"TWO PARIS METHODIST MINISTERS TRANSFERRED
... . The Rev. William E. Howell, pastor of Arcadia Park Methodist Church, Dallas was named pastor of Calvary Church here, succeeding the Rev. Ben Bell, who goes to the Van Alstyne Methodist Church in the Sherman District. The Rev. Bell came to Paris in November, 1946, from Greenville. ... "
Ben & Ruby were living in Van Alstyne, Grayson Co, TX when he was admitted to St. Vincent Hospital in Sherman. He died from a Coronary Occlusion at 2:15 a.m. on July 22, 1938. He had lived 56 years, 8 months, & 1 day. His wife, Ruby Bell of Van Alstyne, was the informant on his death record. He was buried on July 25th.
Obituaries from around Texas were published about his death.
Paris News
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"REV. BEN C. BELL, FORMERLY CALVARY PASTOR HERE, DIES
Sherman - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56 pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist Church, died Thursday.
He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six years; Frisco, three years, Greenville, two years, and at Bonham, Archer City and Leonard.
The Rev. Bell served as pastor of Calvary Methodist Church her from November 1946, until June of this year. He came to Paris from the Lee Street Church at Greenville.
Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 4 o'clock at the Key Memorial Church in Sherman.
Survivors include his wife and two children, Mrs. David E. burns and Bill Ben Bell, both of Sherman.
-----
Evening Journal
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"VAN ALSTYNE PASTOR IS TAKEN BY DEATH
Sherman, July 22 - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist church, died today.
He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris, where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six year; Frisco, Three years; Greenville, two years, and at Bohnam, Archer city and Leonard."
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"REV. BEN BELL DIES AT VAN ALSTYNE
Rev. Ben Bell, 56, first pastor of the Wesley Methodist Church in Wichita Falls, died Thursday in Van Alstyne, where he was pastor of the Methodist Church.
Bell came to Wichita in the fall of 1927 from Howe and remained here six years, during which time he helped build the present Wesley Methodist Church, 2300 Holiday.
He was married and had two daughters. Van Alstyne was Bell's home town. A Sunday school class at the Wesley Church here has been named in his honor."
Lubbock Morning Avalanche
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"VAN ALSTYNE PASTOR IS TAKEN BY DEATH
Sherman, July 22 - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist church, died today. He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris, where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six years; Frisco, three years; Greenville, two years, and at Bonham, Archer City and Leonard."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, July 29, 1948
"Rev. Ben C. Bell
Funeral services were held at 4 p.m. Friday in Sherman for Rev. Ben C.Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist Church, (unable to read parts of article, which is torn and unaligned).
Survivors are his wife and Billy Ben of the United States of San Diego, Calif.; one daughter, David E. Burns of Sherman; Mrs. Zettie Buck Atteberry of Dolman; brother, J.T. Bell of ? and sister, Mrs. T.F. Aston of ?"
Paris News
Thursday, July 29, 1948
Roxton
"The Rev. and Mrs. T.H. Browning were in Sherman Friday to attend the funeral of the Rev. Ben Bell, formerly of Paris."
His obituary follows:
"Reverend Ben Bell
Ben Bell was born at Woodville, Indian Territory, Oklahoma, September 21, 1891, a son of Mr. and Mrs. R.S. Bell and the grandson of pioneer educator and missionary to the
Chickasaw Indians.
The Rev. Robert Scott Bell was converted to the church at Woodville in 1913. He was married to Miss Ruby Simmons of Sherman, Texas, in 1921. He was admitted to the itinerant ministry at Key Memorial Methodist Church, Sherman, Texas, in 1919.
He was ordained an Elder at Gainesville in 1923, Bishop Moore presiding, and was educated at Wesley College, Greenville, Austin College, Sherman, and Southern Methodist University.
His pastorates included the following appointments: Sherman Mission, Clark Memorial at Bonham,Howe, Sibley-Taylor at Wichita Falls, Frisco, Leonard, Whitewright, Archer City,
Lee Street at Greenville, Calvary at Paris, and Van Alstyne.
Rev. Bell went to his eternal home July 22, 1948. He was survived by his wife, one son, Billy Ben; one daughter, Mary Jane (Mrs. David Burns); his mother, Mrs. Ezetta Atteberry; one brother, J.T. Bell; one sister, Mrs. T.F. Aston."
Ruby was a patient in the Sherman Community Hospital when she died at 5:45 a.m. on December 28, 1960, from Multiple Cerebral Emboli. She had lived 64 years, 11 months, & 9 days. She was buried on December 29th.
Benjamin's parents were:
Robert Simon Bell (1851 - 1907)
Ezetta Bernice Buck Attebery (1872 - 1952)
Ben & his siblings:
Benjamin "Ben" Chrisman Bell 1891–1948
James Thomas Bell 1894–1968
Addie Bell 1898–1992
-----
On June 7, 1900,
Benjamin C., age 8, lived in Woodville, Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory with his parents, Robert S. & Ezetta B., ages 49 & 29. His parents had been married 10 years; his mother had given birth to 4 children - only 3 were living. His father was a general merchandise salesman. His siblings were James T., age 6, & Addie, 1.
-----
Ben's father died in Woodville on July 23, 1907.
On April 23/24, 1910,
Ben, age 18, lived with his widowed, mother, Zettie Bell, age 37, who owned a farm in in Odell, Marshall Co, OK. His mother had given birth to 5 children, but only 3 were living: James & Addie, ages 15 & 11. Ben & his brother, James, helped support their family by home farming.
-----
Ben & his mother, and sister, Addie, moved to Sherman, TX sometime later.
Ben, age 25, single, lived at 323 North Lee Avenue in Sherman, TX with his mother, who he supported, when he enlisted for the WWI Draft on June 5, 1917. He worked as a printer at Sherman Print Company, in Sherman. The record showed that he was born on September 21, 1891. He was described as tall with medium build, having blue eyes, & light colored hair. His name was signed "Ben Bell."
-----
On January 13, 1920,
Ben, age 27, single, lived with his mother, Zettie Bell, age 47, who owned a home, mortgage free, on Vaden Street in Sherman Precinct 6, Grayson Co, TX. He was self-employed as a printer. His sister, Addie, 21, single, worked as a stenographer in a bank.
-----
Bonham Daily Favorite (TX)
Tuesday, March 29, 1921
SOUTH SIDE NOTES
"Rev. Ben Bell and his mother, Mrs. Zetta Bell, spent yesterday in Sherman."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, May 20, 192
"SMITH-FREEMAN
A pretty wedding was solemnized Wednesday night, at 8 o'clock, at the South Side Methodist church, when Mr. Collie Smith and Miss Fannie Freeman were united in marriage. Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the church officiated in an impressive manner, using the beautiful ring ceremony. ... "
Bonham Daily Favorite
Wednesday, June 15, 1921
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist church in South Bonham, left this morning for Dallas to attend summer school at the Southern Methodist University."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, July 1, 1921
"Rev. Ben Bell returned yesterday afternoon from Dallas, where he has been attending the School of Theology at the Southern Methodist University."
Ben married Ruby Simmons in Sherman, Grayson Co, TX on December 21, 1921.
Bonham Daily Favorite
Wednesday, March 22, 1922
"Rev. Benn Bell and W.L. Sasser are in Honey Grove attending a church conference."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, September 22, 1922
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the South Bonham Methodist church, returned to Sherman last night after the service. His wife and baby have been in that city for several days and his baby is reported quite ill."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Tuesday, March 6, 1923
"Rev. Ben Bell has returned from Sherman. He reports his little child and his sister improving after several days' illness."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Saturday, December 20, 1924
"Rev. Ben Bell, who for some time was pastor of Clark Memorial church was a caller at the Favorite office today. Mr. Bell came down from Howe, where he is now pastor, to conduct the funeral of T.F. Sledge, who died at Edhube. Mr. Bell has many friends in Bonham and Fannin County."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Saturday, February 28, 1925,
"Clark Memorial Methodist - South Bonham
B.F. Pritchett, Pastor
Sunday School (:45
Preaching 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Epworth League 6:30
Our former pastor Rev. Ben Bell will preach for us at these services."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, August 12, 1926
"REVIVAL MEETING AT ORANGEVILLE
A revival meeting of community-wide interest began last Monday night at the Methodist Church at Orangeville. The meeting is being held on the school ground and the open air evening services make it more comfortable and interesting to those who attend and to those who are charged with the responsibilty of leadership. The day services are being conducted in the church house, at 10 o'clock each day.
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist Church at Howe, is assisting the pastor, Rev. Harold Schmitzer, in the meeting. The ministers are leading the singing. Good crowds are reported in attendance upon the services and much interest is manifest."
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, March 13, 1928
"SIBLEY-TAYLOR W.M.S. PLANS ALL-DAY MEET
The Sibley-Taylor W.M.S. met at the tabernacle Monday afternoon for Bible study with the pastor, Rev. Ben Bell, conducting the lesson on John 11-13. The meeting opened by the assembly sing, 'More Love to Thee,' and a prayer by Mrs. J.E. Gilbreath. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, April 3, 1928
"Willis-Miller Marriage Announced
Announcement is made of the marriage of Benjamin L. Willis and Miss Mabel Rosa Miller which took place Monday afternoon a the home of the Rev. Ben Bell, 2308 Broad. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, April 5, 1928
"Sibley-Taylor Church to Celebrate Lord's supper Thursday night
There will be a communion service at the Sibley-Taylor Methodist church at 8 o'clock Thursday evening celebrating the day the Lord's supper was instituted.
On Friday evening the church will be lighted by an illuminated cross with all other lights out. Mrs. H.H. Vining will sing 'Near the Cross, which will be followed gy a prayer.
There have been good sized crowds at the services being held each evening this week, according to the report of the Rev. Ben Bell, pastor."
On April 7, 1930,
Ben & Ruby B. Bell, ages 38 & 33, were renting a home on Yale Street in Wichita Falls, (Ward of City Sibley Taylor), Wichita Co, TX for $25. He was the Pastor in a Methodist Church. They had a daughter, Mary J., age 7, & s son, Billie B., 1 year & 3 months old.
-----
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, September 22, 1931
"Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Hosts at Party
Mr. and Mrs. Ira B. Lynn entertained members of the senior Epworth league of the Wilson Memorial Methodist church at their home Monday evening. Games were played and gifts presented to Rev. Benn Bell, pastor of the church in observation of his birthday. Refreshments were served to about 20 members."
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, November 5, 1931
"LARGE CROWD ATTENDS RECEPTION FOR PASTOR
One hundred members and friends of Wilson Memorial Methodist church gathered at the church Wednesday evening for a reception to Rev. Ben Bell and family, who have recently been returned to the pastorate of the church for the fifth year.
Addresses of welcome were extended the minister and his family by heads of the various departments of the church. The laity of the church was represented by W.A. Lynn, lay leader for the congregation, by Mrs. Lena Wilcox, president of the woman's missionary society. To these addresses of welcome, Rev. Bell responded most happily. Following this service a generous shower of groceries were carried into the parsonage by those in attendance. Refreshments were served to the company by ladies of the church."
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, December 15, 1931
"HARVEST DAY PROGRAM AT WILSON MEMORIAL
Members of Wilson Memorial Methodist Woman's Missionary society met at the church Monday in a Harvest day program when Rev. Ben Bell gave an interesting devotional and Mrs. Ben Bell played a piano number. Each officer gave a splendid report of the year's work. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, February 28, 1933
"WILSON MEMORIAL WOMEN HAVE MEETING
Members of the Wilson Memorial Methodist Woman's Missionary society met at the church in a business session Monday and the Rev. Ben Bell opened the meeting with prayer. Mrs. Bell gave the devotional and each one present gave a sentence prayer in behalf of the revival which is to begin at the church Sunday. ... "
Mckinney Daily Courier Gazette
Friday, September 7, 1934
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist church at Frisco and wife were McKinney visitors Thursday. He is having a fairly good year as spiritual leader of his church, which owns and worships in a modern brick church building that would be a credit to a town of much larger size than Frisco. Rev. Mr. Bell had a good revival meeting during the summer at which he had a good number of conversions, reclamations and additions."
Mckinney Daily Courier Gazette
Wednesday, July 8, 1936
"REV. BELL'S FINE MESSAGES SOUTH WILCOX REVIVAL
Holds Meeting For The Pastor, Rev. F.A. Ray
Rev. Ben Bell of Frisco, who is conducting a week's revival meeting at the South Wilcox Street Methodist Church, has been bringing some splendid inspirational messages to large congregations each evening. The services begin at 8 o'clock and open with fine song services by the church choir, with the Pastor, Rev. F.A. Ray, assisting as director. ... "
In 1935 they lived in Frisco, Collin Co, TX.
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, April 27, 1939
"Rev. Ben Bell entered upon his work Sunday as pastor of the Methodist Church, and other churches of the town dismissed their evening services to attend the Methodist Church. Mr. Bell came here from Leonard, succeeding Rev. Joe M. Connally who was transferred to Decatur. Mr. Bell has two children in school at Leonard, Mary Jane and Billie Ben, and they will remain in Leonard with Mrs. Bell until the close of school, spending the week-ends here. Mr. Bell has been a Methodist minister for about 20 years, having served churches at Sherman, Bonham, Howe, Wichita Falls and Frisco before going to in Leonard in 1936."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, September 28, 1939
"Search for an escaped lunatic by state police officers created quite a bit of excitement among householders here Monday. The man, dressed in a white uniform worn by inmates of state institutions, was seen on the streets here by several persons, and was reported to have purchased fruit at a local store.
Charley Guinn, local painter, dressed in white coveralls similar to state uniforms, was sitting on the curb on the main drag talking to Rev. Ben Bell, when a state police car drove by. Seeing the white uniform, the officers returned to investigate, but Guinn convinced them that he was not a lunatic and had not escaped from anywhere. He told them he had seen a man answering the description of the fugitive, and volunteered to help search for him which he did. The lunatic was not captured, however, and since that time housewives have been keeping their screens latched night and day."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, March 21, 1940
"HI-Y MEETS
Regular meeting of the Hi-U club was held in the gym on Monday night, March 11, at 7 o'clock.
Because of so many absentees the club went right into the program. Rev. Ben Bell made a talk on life and the little things that make life. ... "
The following Federal Census record showed that Ben had completed 3 years of college.
On April 11, 1940,
Rev. Ben & Ruby, ages 48 & 44, paid $15 per month to rent a home on Maple Street in Whitewright, Grayson Co, TX. He was still in the ministry. Their children were Mary Jane, age 17 & Billie Ben, 11. Two public school teachers, single, who boarded with them were Mons Sullivan & Marrella Tatum, ages 29.
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, October 24, 1940
"METHODISTS CLOSE CONFERENCE YEAR
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist Church, and family will go to Greenville Friday to attend the annual meeting of the North Texas Conference, which will convene in that city Friday for the annual session. At the conference the regular business of the church will be attended to and pastors for the various charges in the districts assigned for the coming year.
Rev. Bell has been pastor of the Methodist Church here one and a half years, coming here from Leonard. He succeeded Rev. Joe M. Connally, who was sent to Decatur to fill a vacancy in the pastorate of the Methodist Church there.
Under the leadership of Rev. Mr Bell the church has mad e progress, and he will be able to give a good report to conference. His report will show all quotas assigned the church paid in full and the church free of debt. The report will show that the women's society of the church has done good work the past year and has contributed liberally to the support of the church, missions, orphans home and other activities of the church.
During his pastorate here Rev. Bell has made man;y friends who would be pleased to see him returned for another year."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, October 31, 1940
"NEW PASTOR FOR LOCAL CHURCH; BELL PROMOTED
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Whitewright Methodist Church for the past eighteen months, was assigned to the Archer City Methodist Church by the North Texas Methodist conference at the closing session Wednesday at Greenville. Archer City is the county seat of Archer County. The appointment carries a substantial increase in salary for Rev. Mr. Bell. During his pastorate here Rev. Bell and family have made made friends, who wish for them success and happiness in their new field. ... "
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, November 7, 1940
"NEW PASTOR
Dr. Alan Harvey-Brooks, new pastor of the First Methodist Church, occupied the pulpit of that church for the first time Sunday morning, and was greeted by a large congregation. He came to Whitewright from Byers, a charge in the western part of the North Texas Conference, and succeeds Rev. Ben Bell, who was transferred to Archer City. ... "
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, May 31, 1946
"Clark Memorial Methodist
Revival meeting will begin Sunday morning, June 2 and will last through June 11, Rev. Ben Bell of the First Methodist Church in Greenville will be our guest speaker. Rev. Bell is a former pastor of the church and is loved by all who know him. ... "
Paris News
Monday, November 4, 1946
"METHODIST PASTORS DRAW ASSIGNMENTS
Dallas - The appointments of 250 Methodist pastors in the North Texas Conference of the First Methodist Church were announced here yesterday by Bishop Charles C. Selecman. ....
Calvary Church in Paris will have a new psstor, the Rev. Ben Bell, replacing the Rev. W.W. Pittman, who has been appointed to the Archer City Church in the Wichita Falls district. ... "
Paris News
Sunday, May 11, 1947
"BANQUET HELD BY CALVARY CHURCH MEN
The Rev. Walter H. Vanderpool, pastor of the First Methodist Church, was principal speaker at the banquet for the men of the Calvary Methodist Church and their guests Thursday evening in the church basement.
Bowls of bluebonnets, roses and honeysuckle decorated the room. Plate favors were hand-printed Bibles.
The Rev. Ben Bell was toastmaster. The Rev. H.C. Hoy, district superintendent, gave the opening prayer. The Rev. Bell, accompanied by Mrs. Bell, played several violin selections. The benediction was given by the Rev. M.C. Bates of Pattonville. Members of the Woman's Society of Christian Service prepared and served the meal."
Paris News
Thursday, September 11, 1947
"The Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of Calvary Methodist Church, left Thursday for a business trip to Sherman. He will return Saturday, accompanied by Mrs. Bell, who has been in Sherman on business this week."
Paris News
Monday, June 7, 1948
"TWO PARIS METHODIST MINISTERS TRANSFERRED
... . The Rev. William E. Howell, pastor of Arcadia Park Methodist Church, Dallas was named pastor of Calvary Church here, succeeding the Rev. Ben Bell, who goes to the Van Alstyne Methodist Church in the Sherman District. The Rev. Bell came to Paris in November, 1946, from Greenville. ... "
Ben & Ruby were living in Van Alstyne, Grayson Co, TX when he was admitted to St. Vincent Hospital in Sherman. He died from a Coronary Occlusion at 2:15 a.m. on July 22, 1938. He had lived 56 years, 8 months, & 1 day. His wife, Ruby Bell of Van Alstyne, was the informant on his death record. He was buried on July 25th.
Obituaries from around Texas were published about his death.
Paris News
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"REV. BEN C. BELL, FORMERLY CALVARY PASTOR HERE, DIES
Sherman - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56 pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist Church, died Thursday.
He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six years; Frisco, three years, Greenville, two years, and at Bonham, Archer City and Leonard.
The Rev. Bell served as pastor of Calvary Methodist Church her from November 1946, until June of this year. He came to Paris from the Lee Street Church at Greenville.
Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 4 o'clock at the Key Memorial Church in Sherman.
Survivors include his wife and two children, Mrs. David E. burns and Bill Ben Bell, both of Sherman.
-----
Evening Journal
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"VAN ALSTYNE PASTOR IS TAKEN BY DEATH
Sherman, July 22 - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist church, died today.
He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris, where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six year; Frisco, Three years; Greenville, two years, and at Bohnam, Archer city and Leonard."
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"REV. BEN BELL DIES AT VAN ALSTYNE
Rev. Ben Bell, 56, first pastor of the Wesley Methodist Church in Wichita Falls, died Thursday in Van Alstyne, where he was pastor of the Methodist Church.
Bell came to Wichita in the fall of 1927 from Howe and remained here six years, during which time he helped build the present Wesley Methodist Church, 2300 Holiday.
He was married and had two daughters. Van Alstyne was Bell's home town. A Sunday school class at the Wesley Church here has been named in his honor."
Lubbock Morning Avalanche
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"VAN ALSTYNE PASTOR IS TAKEN BY DEATH
Sherman, July 22 - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist church, died today. He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris, where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six years; Frisco, three years; Greenville, two years, and at Bonham, Archer City and Leonard."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, July 29, 1948
"Rev. Ben C. Bell
Funeral services were held at 4 p.m. Friday in Sherman for Rev. Ben C.Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist Church, (unable to read parts of article, which is torn and unaligned).
Survivors are his wife and Billy Ben of the United States of San Diego, Calif.; one daughter, David E. Burns of Sherman; Mrs. Zettie Buck Atteberry of Dolman; brother, J.T. Bell of ? and sister, Mrs. T.F. Aston of ?"
Paris News
Thursday, July 29, 1948
Roxton
"The Rev. and Mrs. T.H. Browning were in Sherman Friday to attend the funeral of the Rev. Ben Bell, formerly of Paris."
His obituary follows:
"Reverend Ben Bell
Ben Bell was born at Woodville, Indian Territory, Oklahoma, September 21, 1891, a son of Mr. and Mrs. R.S. Bell and the grandson of pioneer educator and missionary to the
Chickasaw Indians.
The Rev. Robert Scott Bell was converted to the church at Woodville in 1913. He was married to Miss Ruby Simmons of Sherman, Texas, in 1921. He was admitted to the itinerant ministry at Key Memorial Methodist Church, Sherman, Texas, in 1919.
He was ordained an Elder at Gainesville in 1923, Bishop Moore presiding, and was educated at Wesley College, Greenville, Austin College, Sherman, and Southern Methodist University.
His pastorates included the following appointments: Sherman Mission, Clark Memorial at Bonham,Howe, Sibley-Taylor at Wichita Falls, Frisco, Leonard, Whitewright, Archer City,
Lee Street at Greenville, Calvary at Paris, and Van Alstyne.
Rev. Bell went to his eternal home July 22, 1948. He was survived by his wife, one son, Billy Ben; one daughter, Mary Jane (Mrs. David Burns); his mother, Mrs. Ezetta Atteberry; one brother, J.T. Bell; one sister, Mrs. T.F. Aston."
Ruby was a patient in the Sherman Community Hospital when she died at 5:45 a.m. on December 28, 1960, from Multiple Cerebral Emboli. She had lived 64 years, 11 months, & 9 days. She was buried on December 29th.
Robert Simon Bell (1851 - 1907)
Ezetta Bernice Buck Attebery (1872 - 1952)
Ben & his siblings:
Benjamin "Ben" Chrisman Bell 1891–1948
James Thomas Bell 1894–1968
Addie Bell 1898–1992
-----
On June 7, 1900,
Benjamin C., age 8, lived in Woodville, Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory with his parents, Robert S. & Ezetta B., ages 49 & 29. His parents had been married 10 years; his mother had given birth to 4 children - only 3 were living. His father was a general merchandise salesman. His siblings were James T., age 6, & Addie, 1.
-----
Ben's father died in Woodville on July 23, 1907.
On April 23/24, 1910,
Ben, age 18, lived with his widowed, mother, Zettie Bell, age 37, who owned a farm in in Odell, Marshall Co, OK. His mother had given birth to 5 children, but only 3 were living: James & Addie, ages 15 & 11. Ben & his brother, James, helped support their family by home farming.
-----
Ben & his mother, and sister, Addie, moved to Sherman, TX sometime later.
Ben, age 25, single, lived at 323 North Lee Avenue in Sherman, TX with his mother, who he supported, when he enlisted for the WWI Draft on June 5, 1917. He worked as a printer at Sherman Print Company, in Sherman. The record showed that he was born on September 21, 1891. He was described as tall with medium build, having blue eyes, & light colored hair. His name was signed "Ben Bell."
-----
On January 13, 1920,
Ben, age 27, single, lived with his mother, Zettie Bell, age 47, who owned a home, mortgage free, on Vaden Street in Sherman Precinct 6, Grayson Co, TX. He was self-employed as a printer. His sister, Addie, 21, single, worked as a stenographer in a bank.
-----
Bonham Daily Favorite (TX)
Tuesday, March 29, 1921
SOUTH SIDE NOTES
"Rev. Ben Bell and his mother, Mrs. Zetta Bell, spent yesterday in Sherman."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, May 20, 192
"SMITH-FREEMAN
A pretty wedding was solemnized Wednesday night, at 8 o'clock, at the South Side Methodist church, when Mr. Collie Smith and Miss Fannie Freeman were united in marriage. Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the church officiated in an impressive manner, using the beautiful ring ceremony. ... "
Bonham Daily Favorite
Wednesday, June 15, 1921
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist church in South Bonham, left this morning for Dallas to attend summer school at the Southern Methodist University."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, July 1, 1921
"Rev. Ben Bell returned yesterday afternoon from Dallas, where he has been attending the School of Theology at the Southern Methodist University."
Ben married Ruby Simmons in Sherman, Grayson Co, TX on December 21, 1921.
Bonham Daily Favorite
Wednesday, March 22, 1922
"Rev. Benn Bell and W.L. Sasser are in Honey Grove attending a church conference."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, September 22, 1922
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the South Bonham Methodist church, returned to Sherman last night after the service. His wife and baby have been in that city for several days and his baby is reported quite ill."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Tuesday, March 6, 1923
"Rev. Ben Bell has returned from Sherman. He reports his little child and his sister improving after several days' illness."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Saturday, December 20, 1924
"Rev. Ben Bell, who for some time was pastor of Clark Memorial church was a caller at the Favorite office today. Mr. Bell came down from Howe, where he is now pastor, to conduct the funeral of T.F. Sledge, who died at Edhube. Mr. Bell has many friends in Bonham and Fannin County."
Bonham Daily Favorite
Saturday, February 28, 1925,
"Clark Memorial Methodist - South Bonham
B.F. Pritchett, Pastor
Sunday School (:45
Preaching 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Epworth League 6:30
Our former pastor Rev. Ben Bell will preach for us at these services."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, August 12, 1926
"REVIVAL MEETING AT ORANGEVILLE
A revival meeting of community-wide interest began last Monday night at the Methodist Church at Orangeville. The meeting is being held on the school ground and the open air evening services make it more comfortable and interesting to those who attend and to those who are charged with the responsibilty of leadership. The day services are being conducted in the church house, at 10 o'clock each day.
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist Church at Howe, is assisting the pastor, Rev. Harold Schmitzer, in the meeting. The ministers are leading the singing. Good crowds are reported in attendance upon the services and much interest is manifest."
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, March 13, 1928
"SIBLEY-TAYLOR W.M.S. PLANS ALL-DAY MEET
The Sibley-Taylor W.M.S. met at the tabernacle Monday afternoon for Bible study with the pastor, Rev. Ben Bell, conducting the lesson on John 11-13. The meeting opened by the assembly sing, 'More Love to Thee,' and a prayer by Mrs. J.E. Gilbreath. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, April 3, 1928
"Willis-Miller Marriage Announced
Announcement is made of the marriage of Benjamin L. Willis and Miss Mabel Rosa Miller which took place Monday afternoon a the home of the Rev. Ben Bell, 2308 Broad. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, April 5, 1928
"Sibley-Taylor Church to Celebrate Lord's supper Thursday night
There will be a communion service at the Sibley-Taylor Methodist church at 8 o'clock Thursday evening celebrating the day the Lord's supper was instituted.
On Friday evening the church will be lighted by an illuminated cross with all other lights out. Mrs. H.H. Vining will sing 'Near the Cross, which will be followed gy a prayer.
There have been good sized crowds at the services being held each evening this week, according to the report of the Rev. Ben Bell, pastor."
On April 7, 1930,
Ben & Ruby B. Bell, ages 38 & 33, were renting a home on Yale Street in Wichita Falls, (Ward of City Sibley Taylor), Wichita Co, TX for $25. He was the Pastor in a Methodist Church. They had a daughter, Mary J., age 7, & s son, Billie B., 1 year & 3 months old.
-----
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, September 22, 1931
"Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Hosts at Party
Mr. and Mrs. Ira B. Lynn entertained members of the senior Epworth league of the Wilson Memorial Methodist church at their home Monday evening. Games were played and gifts presented to Rev. Benn Bell, pastor of the church in observation of his birthday. Refreshments were served to about 20 members."
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, November 5, 1931
"LARGE CROWD ATTENDS RECEPTION FOR PASTOR
One hundred members and friends of Wilson Memorial Methodist church gathered at the church Wednesday evening for a reception to Rev. Ben Bell and family, who have recently been returned to the pastorate of the church for the fifth year.
Addresses of welcome were extended the minister and his family by heads of the various departments of the church. The laity of the church was represented by W.A. Lynn, lay leader for the congregation, by Mrs. Lena Wilcox, president of the woman's missionary society. To these addresses of welcome, Rev. Bell responded most happily. Following this service a generous shower of groceries were carried into the parsonage by those in attendance. Refreshments were served to the company by ladies of the church."
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, December 15, 1931
"HARVEST DAY PROGRAM AT WILSON MEMORIAL
Members of Wilson Memorial Methodist Woman's Missionary society met at the church Monday in a Harvest day program when Rev. Ben Bell gave an interesting devotional and Mrs. Ben Bell played a piano number. Each officer gave a splendid report of the year's work. ... "
Wichita Daily Times
Tuesday, February 28, 1933
"WILSON MEMORIAL WOMEN HAVE MEETING
Members of the Wilson Memorial Methodist Woman's Missionary society met at the church in a business session Monday and the Rev. Ben Bell opened the meeting with prayer. Mrs. Bell gave the devotional and each one present gave a sentence prayer in behalf of the revival which is to begin at the church Sunday. ... "
Mckinney Daily Courier Gazette
Friday, September 7, 1934
"Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist church at Frisco and wife were McKinney visitors Thursday. He is having a fairly good year as spiritual leader of his church, which owns and worships in a modern brick church building that would be a credit to a town of much larger size than Frisco. Rev. Mr. Bell had a good revival meeting during the summer at which he had a good number of conversions, reclamations and additions."
Mckinney Daily Courier Gazette
Wednesday, July 8, 1936
"REV. BELL'S FINE MESSAGES SOUTH WILCOX REVIVAL
Holds Meeting For The Pastor, Rev. F.A. Ray
Rev. Ben Bell of Frisco, who is conducting a week's revival meeting at the South Wilcox Street Methodist Church, has been bringing some splendid inspirational messages to large congregations each evening. The services begin at 8 o'clock and open with fine song services by the church choir, with the Pastor, Rev. F.A. Ray, assisting as director. ... "
In 1935 they lived in Frisco, Collin Co, TX.
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, April 27, 1939
"Rev. Ben Bell entered upon his work Sunday as pastor of the Methodist Church, and other churches of the town dismissed their evening services to attend the Methodist Church. Mr. Bell came here from Leonard, succeeding Rev. Joe M. Connally who was transferred to Decatur. Mr. Bell has two children in school at Leonard, Mary Jane and Billie Ben, and they will remain in Leonard with Mrs. Bell until the close of school, spending the week-ends here. Mr. Bell has been a Methodist minister for about 20 years, having served churches at Sherman, Bonham, Howe, Wichita Falls and Frisco before going to in Leonard in 1936."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, September 28, 1939
"Search for an escaped lunatic by state police officers created quite a bit of excitement among householders here Monday. The man, dressed in a white uniform worn by inmates of state institutions, was seen on the streets here by several persons, and was reported to have purchased fruit at a local store.
Charley Guinn, local painter, dressed in white coveralls similar to state uniforms, was sitting on the curb on the main drag talking to Rev. Ben Bell, when a state police car drove by. Seeing the white uniform, the officers returned to investigate, but Guinn convinced them that he was not a lunatic and had not escaped from anywhere. He told them he had seen a man answering the description of the fugitive, and volunteered to help search for him which he did. The lunatic was not captured, however, and since that time housewives have been keeping their screens latched night and day."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, March 21, 1940
"HI-Y MEETS
Regular meeting of the Hi-U club was held in the gym on Monday night, March 11, at 7 o'clock.
Because of so many absentees the club went right into the program. Rev. Ben Bell made a talk on life and the little things that make life. ... "
The following Federal Census record showed that Ben had completed 3 years of college.
On April 11, 1940,
Rev. Ben & Ruby, ages 48 & 44, paid $15 per month to rent a home on Maple Street in Whitewright, Grayson Co, TX. He was still in the ministry. Their children were Mary Jane, age 17 & Billie Ben, 11. Two public school teachers, single, who boarded with them were Mons Sullivan & Marrella Tatum, ages 29.
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, October 24, 1940
"METHODISTS CLOSE CONFERENCE YEAR
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Methodist Church, and family will go to Greenville Friday to attend the annual meeting of the North Texas Conference, which will convene in that city Friday for the annual session. At the conference the regular business of the church will be attended to and pastors for the various charges in the districts assigned for the coming year.
Rev. Bell has been pastor of the Methodist Church here one and a half years, coming here from Leonard. He succeeded Rev. Joe M. Connally, who was sent to Decatur to fill a vacancy in the pastorate of the Methodist Church there.
Under the leadership of Rev. Mr Bell the church has mad e progress, and he will be able to give a good report to conference. His report will show all quotas assigned the church paid in full and the church free of debt. The report will show that the women's society of the church has done good work the past year and has contributed liberally to the support of the church, missions, orphans home and other activities of the church.
During his pastorate here Rev. Bell has made man;y friends who would be pleased to see him returned for another year."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, October 31, 1940
"NEW PASTOR FOR LOCAL CHURCH; BELL PROMOTED
Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of the Whitewright Methodist Church for the past eighteen months, was assigned to the Archer City Methodist Church by the North Texas Methodist conference at the closing session Wednesday at Greenville. Archer City is the county seat of Archer County. The appointment carries a substantial increase in salary for Rev. Mr. Bell. During his pastorate here Rev. Bell and family have made made friends, who wish for them success and happiness in their new field. ... "
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, November 7, 1940
"NEW PASTOR
Dr. Alan Harvey-Brooks, new pastor of the First Methodist Church, occupied the pulpit of that church for the first time Sunday morning, and was greeted by a large congregation. He came to Whitewright from Byers, a charge in the western part of the North Texas Conference, and succeeds Rev. Ben Bell, who was transferred to Archer City. ... "
Bonham Daily Favorite
Friday, May 31, 1946
"Clark Memorial Methodist
Revival meeting will begin Sunday morning, June 2 and will last through June 11, Rev. Ben Bell of the First Methodist Church in Greenville will be our guest speaker. Rev. Bell is a former pastor of the church and is loved by all who know him. ... "
Paris News
Monday, November 4, 1946
"METHODIST PASTORS DRAW ASSIGNMENTS
Dallas - The appointments of 250 Methodist pastors in the North Texas Conference of the First Methodist Church were announced here yesterday by Bishop Charles C. Selecman. ....
Calvary Church in Paris will have a new psstor, the Rev. Ben Bell, replacing the Rev. W.W. Pittman, who has been appointed to the Archer City Church in the Wichita Falls district. ... "
Paris News
Sunday, May 11, 1947
"BANQUET HELD BY CALVARY CHURCH MEN
The Rev. Walter H. Vanderpool, pastor of the First Methodist Church, was principal speaker at the banquet for the men of the Calvary Methodist Church and their guests Thursday evening in the church basement.
Bowls of bluebonnets, roses and honeysuckle decorated the room. Plate favors were hand-printed Bibles.
The Rev. Ben Bell was toastmaster. The Rev. H.C. Hoy, district superintendent, gave the opening prayer. The Rev. Bell, accompanied by Mrs. Bell, played several violin selections. The benediction was given by the Rev. M.C. Bates of Pattonville. Members of the Woman's Society of Christian Service prepared and served the meal."
Paris News
Thursday, September 11, 1947
"The Rev. Ben Bell, pastor of Calvary Methodist Church, left Thursday for a business trip to Sherman. He will return Saturday, accompanied by Mrs. Bell, who has been in Sherman on business this week."
Paris News
Monday, June 7, 1948
"TWO PARIS METHODIST MINISTERS TRANSFERRED
... . The Rev. William E. Howell, pastor of Arcadia Park Methodist Church, Dallas was named pastor of Calvary Church here, succeeding the Rev. Ben Bell, who goes to the Van Alstyne Methodist Church in the Sherman District. The Rev. Bell came to Paris in November, 1946, from Greenville. ... "
Ben & Ruby were living in Van Alstyne, Grayson Co, TX when he was admitted to St. Vincent Hospital in Sherman. He died from a Coronary Occlusion at 2:15 a.m. on July 22, 1938. He had lived 56 years, 8 months, & 1 day. His wife, Ruby Bell of Van Alstyne, was the informant on his death record. He was buried on July 25th.
Obituaries from around Texas were published about his death.
Paris News
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"REV. BEN C. BELL, FORMERLY CALVARY PASTOR HERE, DIES
Sherman - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56 pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist Church, died Thursday.
He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six years; Frisco, three years, Greenville, two years, and at Bonham, Archer City and Leonard.
The Rev. Bell served as pastor of Calvary Methodist Church her from November 1946, until June of this year. He came to Paris from the Lee Street Church at Greenville.
Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 4 o'clock at the Key Memorial Church in Sherman.
Survivors include his wife and two children, Mrs. David E. burns and Bill Ben Bell, both of Sherman.
-----
Evening Journal
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"VAN ALSTYNE PASTOR IS TAKEN BY DEATH
Sherman, July 22 - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist church, died today.
He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris, where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six year; Frisco, Three years; Greenville, two years, and at Bohnam, Archer city and Leonard."
Wichita Daily Times
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"REV. BEN BELL DIES AT VAN ALSTYNE
Rev. Ben Bell, 56, first pastor of the Wesley Methodist Church in Wichita Falls, died Thursday in Van Alstyne, where he was pastor of the Methodist Church.
Bell came to Wichita in the fall of 1927 from Howe and remained here six years, during which time he helped build the present Wesley Methodist Church, 2300 Holiday.
He was married and had two daughters. Van Alstyne was Bell's home town. A Sunday school class at the Wesley Church here has been named in his honor."
Lubbock Morning Avalanche
Thursday, July 22, 1948
"VAN ALSTYNE PASTOR IS TAKEN BY DEATH
Sherman, July 22 - The Rev. Ben C. Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist church, died today. He came to Van Alstyne two months ago from Paris, where he had served for two years. He also had served at Wichita Falls for six years; Frisco, three years; Greenville, two years, and at Bonham, Archer City and Leonard."
Whitewright Sun
Thursday, July 29, 1948
"Rev. Ben C. Bell
Funeral services were held at 4 p.m. Friday in Sherman for Rev. Ben C.Bell, 56, pastor of the Van Alstyne Methodist Church, (unable to read parts of article, which is torn and unaligned).
Survivors are his wife and Billy Ben of the United States of San Diego, Calif.; one daughter, David E. Burns of Sherman; Mrs. Zettie Buck Atteberry of Dolman; brother, J.T. Bell of ? and sister, Mrs. T.F. Aston of ?"
Paris News
Thursday, July 29, 1948
Roxton
"The Rev. and Mrs. T.H. Browning were in Sherman Friday to attend the funeral of the Rev. Ben Bell, formerly of Paris."
His obituary follows:
"Reverend Ben Bell
Ben Bell was born at Woodville, Indian Territory, Oklahoma, September 21, 1891, a son of Mr. and Mrs. R.S. Bell and the grandson of pioneer educator and missionary to the
Chickasaw Indians.
The Rev. Robert Scott Bell was converted to the church at Woodville in 1913. He was married to Miss Ruby Simmons of Sherman, Texas, in 1921. He was admitted to the itinerant ministry at Key Memorial Methodist Church, Sherman, Texas, in 1919.
He was ordained an Elder at Gainesville in 1923, Bishop Moore presiding, and was educated at Wesley College, Greenville, Austin College, Sherman, and Southern Methodist University.
His pastorates included the following appointments: Sherman Mission, Clark Memorial at Bonham,Howe, Sibley-Taylor at Wichita Falls, Frisco, Leonard, Whitewright, Archer City,
Lee Street at Greenville, Calvary at Paris, and Van Alstyne.
Rev. Bell went to his eternal home July 22, 1948. He was survived by his wife, one son, Billy Ben; one daughter, Mary Jane (Mrs. David Burns); his mother, Mrs. Ezetta Atteberry; one brother, J.T. Bell; one sister, Mrs. T.F. Aston."
Ruby was a patient in the Sherman Community Hospital when she died at 5:45 a.m. on December 28, 1960, from Multiple Cerebral Emboli. She had lived 64 years, 11 months, & 9 days. She was buried on December 29th.
Family Members
Spouse
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
Advertisement
