Earl F. “Jay” Bell Jr., 65, of Hicksville, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 22, 2026. Jay was born on September 20, 1961, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to the late Earl F. Bell Sr. and Helen (Myers) Bell. He attended Snyder High School in Fort Wayne and held many jobs throughout his career before retiring as a self-employed contractor. In retirement, Jay continued to keep busy by driving for many of his Amish friends. He was a member of the Bryan Eagle Riders Aerie #2233 and enjoyed riding his motorcycle, spending time with his grandkids, and fixing things—or sometimes breaking them just so he could fix them again. A rocker at heart and a lover of all music, Jay enjoyed playing his guitar and listening to his favorite artists, especially Johnny “Guitar” Watson and Jewel. His love of music and dancing earned him the nickname “Mean Gene the Dancing Machine,” a name that reflected his fun-loving spirit and zest for life. Jay will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for music and motorcycles, his knack for fixing just about anything, and the unique personality that made him unforgettable. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Surviving is his fiancée, Sue “Ella” Vires” of Butler, Indiana; four children, Tara Bell of Hicksville, Ohio, Tasha Gibson of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Caleb Bell of Hicksville, Ohio, and Tiffany Bell of Hicksville, Ohio; five grandchildren, with one on the way; four siblings, Pam (Jerry) Trim of Hicksville, Ohio, Lou (Bill) Knight of Hicksville, Ohio, Roxann (Gary) Henderson of Hicksville, Ohio, and Patrick Bell of Hicksville, Ohio; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and by his dog, Boogie and cat, P.J. Jay was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside funeral services for Earl F. “Jay” Bell Jr. will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Forest Home Cemetery, Hicksville. Arrangements are under the care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home & Crematory, 706 North Main Street, Hicksville, Ohio 43526.

Memorial contributions can be directed to the family.

Condolences may be sent to the family or memories may be shared at www.oberlinturnbull.com.