Smithfield - Robert Edward Bell, Jr., age 81, entered into his eternal rest on Friday, January 3, 2025, in UNC Johnston Health of Smithfield, surrounded by his loved ones. Born, January 22, 1943, in Johnston County, he was a son of the late Robert E. Bell and Betsy Jordan Bell. He is preceded in death by his wife, Cynthia Stephenson Bell. Robert was known for his charitability, love of children, nature and animals. Robert was a man of strong principals by which he lived and was not afraid to stand for his beliefs. His career spanned over 32 years working for the State of North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles as a driver's license examiner.  In his spare time, he was an amateur carpenter, he spent many hours working in his woodshop. Roberts love and appreciation for nature was also reflected in his enjoyment of fishing. He was a loving husband, father, brother and friend.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Parrish Funeral Home with the Rev. Kate Byrd officiating. Robert will be laid to rest beside his wife, Cynthia Bell in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive visitors prior to the service from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Robert is survived by his sons; Robert E. Bell, III of Colorado, Jonathan "Jon" Bell of Smithfield, brothers; Tommy Bell (Karen) of Smithfield, Jordan Bell (Kay) of South Boston, VA, sister, Cora Bell McKnight of Newbern, 3 nephews, 1 niece, as well as family friend Cecil Heavner.

Because of Roberts love for charity, the family ask that memorial donations be made in his memory to one of the charities he was passionate about such as: The Baptist Home for Children, P.O. Box 338 Thomasville, NC 27361, St. Jude's Children's Hospital, st.jude.org/donate, The Nature Conservancy, Attn: Treasury 4245 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203, The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, P.O. Box 807 Harpers Ferry, WV, 25425 or to a charity of your choice.