Michael James Bell

Michael James Bell passed away after suffering a heart attack on May 31, 2025, in Dallas, Texas. He was a quiet, thoughtful man who lived a life filled with purpose, curiosity, and devotion to his family and faith. He will be greatly missed.

Michael was born on August 26, 1949, to Forrest and Jane Bell, the youngest of their three sons. At the time, the family lived in Delhi, LA where his father worked as a geologist for Sun Oil. During Michael’s younger years, his family moved back and forth between Dallas and Shreveport, finally settling in Shreveport. Michael attended C.E. Byrd High School and graduated in 1967.

Once Michael earned his degree in Computer Science from Louisiana Tech, he took a bold leap — he sold his car and set out for England, hoping for a job or just an adventure. As it turned out, he found both. He stayed in England for three years before returning to the U.S. and eventually made his home in Dallas. There, he built a successful career in IT as a software developer, always staying on top of the latest tech trends.

After his retirement, he followed a new passion — baking. His love for heritage grains and the science of bread led him to start a home bakery, where he delighted customers with his delicious bread and baked goods.

Michael was married to Bridget Bell for 46 years. Their love story began in the most unexpected way — with their first date set up by his mother. To their mutual surprise, however, his mom got it right! He loved Bridget well and with intention — always finding ways to surprise her. In her words, loving her might have been the thing he did best.

Together, they raised two sons, Andrew and John, of whom Michael was deeply proud. He admired their character and integrity, and his joy only grew as he watched them become devoted husbands and fathers. He adored his grandchildren — Sophia, Toby, Scout, and Elias — and took joy in their lives.

Michael was probably best known for his dry wit and sense of humor. You were either laughing or trying to figure out if he was serious. He kept you on your toes!

His deep and abiding faith in the Lord guided how he lived and loved. Although he is no longer with us, we rest in the knowledge of his salvation through Jesus Christ and new life in heaven.

Michael was predeceased by his parents, Forrest William Bell and Jane Eger Bell, and his brother, Alex Bell.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Bridget Hathaway Bell; his two sons, Andrew Forrest Bell and his wife, Anna-Feliza Bell, and John Hathaway Bell and his wife, Lindsey Bell. He was a proud grandfather to Sophia, Scout, Toby, and Elias Bell.

Michael is also survived by his brother, Joel Forrest Bell, and sisters-in-law, Ellen Victory Bell and Carolyn Wilkerson Bell.

 A graveside service will be held Friday, June 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Park West Cemetery in Shreveport, LA. A memorial service will follow in Dallas on Monday, June 9, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Park Cities Presbyterian Church.

If you would like to consider a donation, he would have appreciated the North Texas Food Bank, the Alzheimer’s Association or Park Cities Presbyterian Church.