James Loyce Bell, 81, was born on June 25, 1942, in Soper, OK, the son of Arlie and Oleta (Walker) Bell. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Judy (Hays) Bell; brothers, David Bell and Arlie "Bud" Bell Jr; sister, Wyona Ruth Webb and grandson, Jarrett Allen Manteuffel.

James lived in the Hugo area most of his life and graduated from Grant High School. He then attended Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton, OK where he received his degree to become an electrician. James later moved to Arizona for his career and that is where he met the love of his life, Judy, they married in 1972. James and Judy moved back to Choctaw County and is where they resided until Judy's passing in 2011.

James was a soft spoken and kind man. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. In his spare time, he enjoyed being outdoors and working on his car he called "The General Lee" that he was so proud of. James will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

James is survived by his son, Charles Manteuffel and wife, Patty of Pheonix, AZ; granddaughter, Shannon Manteuffel and numerous nieces and nephews along with a host of other family and friends.