Forest Lee Bell, age 64, of Wilmington, NC, passed away in the early morning of November 30, 2023, after fighting a long illness.

He was born on April 26, 1959, in Brevard County, FL to the late William Douglas Bell and Betty Lou Davis Bell.

Forest was a Navy Veteran, and proud to have served his country. He served on the USS Luce and Fleet Training Center as a BT and Master Training Specialist.  He was often heard reminding people that veterans swore an oath from which they were never released.

Forest will be remembered for many things, including voting in every election, being the neighborhood bicycle repair shop, building recumbent bikes, building and donating bikes for those with physical challenges, and his inventive tinkering.

Forest is survived by his wife of 42 years, Stephanie Ferguson Bell, his brother, Michael Alan Bell (Elizabeth), his sister, Debra Miller, a son, Tarl Alexander Bell, a daughter, Rebecca Lynn Elizabeth Bell, 9 grandchildren: Timothy Shawn Van Graafeiland, Nikolas Ty Perry Saulnier, Angel Arianna Smith (Kevin), Benjamin Alexander Bell, Kahlan Elise Bell, Ethan Alexander Bell, Warren Alexander Bell, Lydia Rose Bell, Zoe Evalyn Bell, plus Sophia Smith ("because she chose me."), and one great grandchild, Daniel Smith, uncles, aunts, cousins, and a wonderful step family via his deceased stepmother, Lynn Bell.

He was loved by many family and friends, and will be remembered and missed. Smooth sailing and following winds, sailor.

There will be a Celebration of Life from 2 - 4 pm. on January 14, 2024, at 626 Hadley Court, Wilmington, NC.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall above.

Quinn McGowen Funeral Home – Wilmington

910-794-7171