Claude J. Bell Sr.

Claude J. Bell Sr. was born on September 17, 1952 in Joliet, IL to the union of Susie Mae Ammons-Bell and Jim Bell. Claude attended Joliet East High School where he made a name for himself in wrestling. Claude was very athletic, which helped him obtain his first job as a lifeguard, saving lives at Nowell Park District as well as becoming the first African American male above average swimmer. Claude later became a machinist at GAF and City Waste in Joliet, IL.

Claude attended church at All Nations Church of God in Christ with his family. In Claude’s later years, he loved to travel, go fishing, and spend time with his family and friends. He was best known for barbequing at any event and occasion. Claude will be missed for his laughter, jokes, nicknaming, and for his kind spirit.

Claude was called home to rest on Sunday, July 11, 2021. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jim Bell in 1993 and Susie Mae Ammons-Bell in 1983; his three brothers: James Bell in 1987, Gregory Bell in 1988, Fred D. Abdullah-Bell in 1999, and two sisters, Imagene Bell-Sampson in 1999 and Patricia Graves in 2017. 

Claude leaves to cherish and carry on his memories, his four children, Tonya Bell, Claude J. Bell Jr., Tamika Bell-Givens (Mike), and Cortney Bell;  big brother, Marion Bell and sister-in-law, Alice Bell aka “Sister Al”; two very special silver nieces, Chelsea Graves and Karen Bell; many grandchildren; great grandchildren and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

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