Obituary of David Bell

With sadness in our hearts, we announce the passing of David E. Bell. A loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, and brother, Dave was the only son born to the late Thomas Reed and Rebecca (Henderson) Bell on May 28, 1948. He peacefully left this world on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at the age of seventy-seven. Dave is survived by his loving wife Kimberly, his precious daughter Marisa Reed (Justin) Rigsby, his sister-in-law Lisa Knapp, and his cherished grandchildren Oliver Reed and Annabelle Catherine Rigsby. Life as Dave knew it was complete with the birth of Oliver and Annabelle. Known as Papa to Oliver and Annabelle, Dave’s favorite moments with his “crumb snatchers” were being curled up in the lazy boy eating candy watching UK Basketball. Dear brother of the late Sandra (Junie) Hill, Uncle Davey to Angela (Ralph) Turton and Daymond (Jane) Hill, Dave will be remembered by his family as a man who was dedicated with a strong commitment to his loved ones. He always had a joke to tell, a prank to pull, an opinion to give, and a laugh to share. Dave was a human atlas of Kentucky, and much of the time spent with his daughter “Varmit” was on Kentucky backroads exploring wild caves, waterfalls and any interesting place that struck their fancy. Known as “Big Dave” to many, he seemed to know someone anywhere he went. A gifted storyteller, Dave applied this love of storytelling as a magician, often telling people his stage name was “Horace Manure”, pronounced “Man-wah”. He was a long-time member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM) and Lexington Thoroughbreds Magic Club. He founded a gathering of like minds at his farm in Owenton, Kentucky for the “Crazy Man’s Magic Convention” beginning in 1998 and continuing until 2025, when his illness precluded his attendance. Dave enjoyed spending time at the farm in Owen County, especially after The Reed Cabin was built in 2012. Dave was also a chronicler of many waterfalls in Kentucky and an amateur historian with considerable interest in Central Kentucky militaria and folklore. Spelunking and cave exploring were his favorite hobbies in his younger years. At the age of 13 he successfully managed to get himself stuck in a cave for hours, earning him another nickname, “Cavey Davey”. Dave’s love of music began in 1961 when the rock band The Beach Boys were formed. He knew every one of their songs and could sing them word for word. Dave will be sorely missed by his family, friends, his numerous audiences, and those who appreciated his wit and considerable wisdom. The family would like to thank the dedicated staff of Bluegrass Care Navigators. A very special thank you to Shanna and Courtney, Dave’s amazing nurses, their loving care and kindness will always be remembered. Burial will be private. A celebration of Dave’s life will take place Saturday June 14th, 2025 at The Office Pub & Deli from 4-6 pm. Stories and laughs are welcomed! Flowers are welcomed, while contributions may be made to Blue Grass Care Navigators 643 Teton Trail Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 in his honor.