Bell, Gary W. 1942-2025 Columbia, Mo.

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Dr. Gary Walter Bell, 82, passed away at home on April 12, 2025. Dr. Bell was born on Aug. 14, 1942, in St. Joseph, to Harry and Vlasta (Spiegel) Bell.

He graduated from Benton High School in 1960 where he participated in multiple sports and was senior class president. He graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 1964 where he played baseball for the Northwest Bearcats. He married Sherry Wiles on Aug. 22, 1964, and they are the parents of three daughters. Dr. Bell received his Master’s degree in Education from the University of Missouri in 1967, followed by a Specialists degree and a doctorate of Education in 1978.

Dr. Bell began his career with the St. Joseph School District in 1964 where he served as a classroom teacher for three years and an elementary and middle school principal for 16 years, serving three different schools. He was a recipient of a National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship at Harvard Graduate School in 1980- focusing on research work in middle school administration. He served as an educational consultant for the Missouri State Teachers Association and in 1985 became superintendent for the Mid-Buchanan R-V School District. In 1994 he became superintendent of the Maryville R-II School District where he served until his retirement in 2001. During his tenure as superintendent, he also served as an adjunct instructor at Northwest Missouri State University. Following his retirement, he spent several years serving as a consultant for the Missouri School Board Association and Missouri Association of Middle School Administrators.

Dr. Bell was an active member of Hyde Park and Huffman Memorial United Methodist churches during his adult years in St. Joseph. He was a lifetime member of the M Club at Northwest Missouri State University and a life member of the University of Missouri Alumni. He was a 44 year member of Charity Zeredatha Lodge #189, A.F. and A.M. in St. Joseph. He was also an avid tennis player and golfer. In 2009, he and his wife, Sherry, moved to Columbia, Missouri, to be closer to some of their children and grandchildren.

Dr. Bell was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Donald W. Bell; his son-in-law, Scott Gregory; and his grandson, Charles Diehls.

He is survived by his wife of almost 61 years, Sherry; his brother, Fred (Sharon) Bell; his daughters, Dana (Brad) Anderson, Julie (Chris) Diehls and Jennifer Gregory; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

A private, family service to honor Dr. Bell will be held at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, any donations to honor Gary’s memory may be sent to Inter-Serv (the former Wesley Center) 200 Cherokee St. Joseph, MO 64504. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.