Wallace Bell

Wallace Bell of Danville, IL, departed this life at 3:30 a.m., Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Accolade Healthcare in Danville, IL.

Wallace was born on January 23, 1944 in Talladega, Alabama to the late Richard and Margaret Bell.  He was the youngest of nine children and was affectionately known as “Toy” or "Wally." Wallace graduated from Talladega County Training School. After high school, he relocated to Danville, IL and worked as a general laborer in construction for several years.  In 1969, through much adversity and hard work, he became one of the first black union ironworkers in Vermilion and Champaign counties.  He was a proud 50-year member of Ironworkers Local Union 380.  Wallace was previously a member of Second Baptist Church.

Wallace was formerly married to Janet Bell.  He is survived by two daughters, Nancy Bell, Champaign, IL and Shanae Bell, Rantoul, IL. One son, Jason (Aysha) Bell, Phoenix, Az. and one sister, Ellen Embry, Talladega, AL. Twelve grandchildren; Justin, Jessica, Christopher, Ryan, Jeremy, Jevion, Dezhanette, Aizha, Joshua. Tevin, Amara and Allysia.    Twenty-one great-grandchildren. Two special nieces, Tammy Hale and Sharon Bell of Danville, IL and a special nephew, Kenny Bell, McDonough, GA.    He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Kevin Bell, two sisters, Sarah Wright and Edith Johnson and four brothers, Clifford Bell, Richard Bell Jr., James Bell, Edward Bell, and Rufus Bell.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Wallace had the ability to tell a good story and his contagious laughter will be missed by many.

The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the many people that were involved in Wallace’s care.  A special thank you to Mica Brown and Serena Butler of Accolade Healthcare, roommate Mr. Ronnie Cail and the Transitions hospice team.

A celebration of life will commence at 12:00 Noon Monday July 22, 2024 at New Life Church of Faith 1419 N. Bowman Ave. Eulogist: Pastor Thomas Miller. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of the service.

A open viewing will be held on Sunday July 21, 2024 from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 pm at Leek & Sons Funeral Home 304 E. Williams St., Danville.

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