John G. Bell

John Grover Bell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family on August 16, 2026, in his hometown of Asheville. Born on February 9, 1939, in Asheville, John’s life of eighty-seven years was a testament to hard work, adventure, and above all, unwavering devotion to his loved ones and community.

John graduated from Lee Edwards High School in 1957, after which he answered the call of service to his country. He served honorably in the U.S. Army for three years in France following his graduation, a formative experience that shaped his deep sense of responsibility and pride.

Upon his return to Asheville, John poured his energy and considerable talents into a passion that had fueled him all his life: the world of automobiles. He was the owner-operator and mechanic of Main Auto Parts for over 50 years, a fixture in the community and a haven for those who shared his enthusiasm for cars and racing. Always ready to lend a knowledgeable hand or a listening ear, John became known far and wide as “Mr. Fix it” to friends, family, and countless loyal customers. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to own and operate Bell’s Mini Storage, further extending his legacy of reliability and service.

Few matched John’s commitment to car culture in Western North Carolina. As a charter member and the first president of the Street Tiques Car Club, he remained actively involved with its members until the very end of his life. His adventurous nature and love for the open road found their zenith in his early years when he raced cars, sponsoring his own #40 Main Auto Parts car. Never missing a chance for a bit of humor, John often joked about having “The only Government sponsored race car” around.

John’s impact reached beyond engines and auto parts; he was deeply committed to his spiritual life and community, serving for many years as a dedicated member of Trinity Baptist Church. His steadfast faith was evident not only in his attendance but in the small ways he shared encouragement, such as giving out lapel pins inscribed with “God’s In Charge.” He was well known throughout all of Western North Carolina, not just for his skills or business acumen, but for his warmth, kindness, and the genuine care he extended to everyone he met. He loved adventure and, above all, he loved life—qualities that drew many to refer to him as a father figure and mentor.

John cherished his family dearly. He is survived by his devoted wife, Patti Ann Bates Davis Bell; daughters: Shannon Bell Freeman and husband Brady, and Leslie Bell Wilder and husband Steve; step-children: Bobby Davis and wife Gail, Ronnie Davis and wife Tina, Tina Canestraro and husband Todd, and Nancy Sasser and husband Ronnie; grandchildren: Sydney Freeman Stein and husband Andrew, Abbey Anne Freeman, John Bryson Freeman and wife Kerigan, Chloe Alexis Wilder, Addison Alyssa Wilder, Kelly Davis, Kelsey Davis Huffman and husband Tyler, Caitlin Davis Gregory and husband Derek, and Jeff Davis; great-grandchildren: Sophia Stein, Keplee Gregory, and Hayden Gregory.; and by many, many extended family and devoted friends.

John’s life was shaped as well by the memory of those who have predeceased him: his parents, Raymon Bivian Bell and Frances Brown Bell; brother, William Anson Bell and wife Donna; and beloved grandson, Eric Davis.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Robert Steward and his staff, as well as the staff of Care Partners Solace Center, for the loving support given to John and his family during his final days.

Those who wish to honor John’s memory may attend the visitation at Trinity Baptist Church, 216 Shelburne Road, Asheville, NC 28806, on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM at the church. Officiating will be Rev. Winston Parrish, Rev. Dr. Ralph Sexton, Jr., and Rev. Allen Rash. Music will be provided by Rev. Doug Guy.

Interment will take place at Green Hills Cemetery, 25 New Leicester Highway, Asheville, NC 28806, with Military Funeral Honors provided by the North Carolina National Guard Honor Guard.

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Davis, Todd Canestraro, Tyler Huffman, Brady Freeman, J.B. Freeman, and Steve Wilder. Honorary pallbearers will be Kenny Buckner, Tim Candler, Roger Radcliff, Jeff Myers, Jamie Morgan, Ben Barnes, Joe Almond, Dave Marcis, David Temple, Albert Brigman, and Freddie Whitaker.

John Grover Bell leaves behind a legacy of generosity, community spirit, and deep-rooted love—a legacy that will endure in the many lives he touched across generations.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve John's family.