Roy Bell was born in Powell, Wyoming, on October 5, 1972, and from an early age developed a character that would endure throughout his life. Quiet on the outside and deep on the inside, Roy was a hard worker, diligent family man, and team player. After his short lifetime of construction and art-related work, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor in November 2018. After a valiant effort and unfailing positive attitude, he passed away on March 20—the spring equinox—at 3:20. 3/20 at 3:20. This is something his mathematical brain would have appreciated.
Roy's most consistent employment was in the sheetrock industry, and he had his own business for about ten years. However, his true joy and occupation was art. Sculpture was his favorite medium, and he often used himself as a model. For several years, he joined the Black Hills Bronze art foundry in Hill City, where he quickly mastered the various disciplines—and became a champion metal pourer. He also took his art to the next level there, exploring the natural world in metal.
Another passion was science and technology, including 3-D printing, building computer components, physics, and math. Roy was constantly thinking of the next great project and making things, and he never stopped dreaming big. Those closest to him recall his active mind, unquenchable enthusiasm, and joy of life. He was always in motion, and could often be seen on his "rip-stick" during off hours and work breaks.
Roy counted his greatest accomplishment as his 26-year marriage to Tammy Bell, and he loved with his whole heart their two daughters, Jada and Kayla. Tammy says that their marriage was always an adventure, but a recurring theme was Roy's tendency to give whatever he had to whoever needed it. Sometimes it was his last dollar.
Roy is survived by Tammy, daughters Jada (16) and Kayla (14), brothers Arnold Bell (Pam) and George Bell (Christie), and sister Marilyn Walker. He was raised with foster siblings, especially Robby Heil and Heidi Huntley. He is also survived by four nieces and nephews, Megan Allen (David), Candi Tankersley (Justin), Karl Bell, and Jessica Bell, and great-niece Faith Harjers-Bell.
A Celebration of Life was held at On Common Ground at 1 PM Saturday, March 23, 610 St. Francis Street, Rapid City. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to donate in Roy's name, to please support the Emerging Artist program at the Dahl Arts Center (thedahl.org). Donations can be sent to Dahl Arts Center, 713 7th St, Rapid City, SD 57701 ATTN: Emerging Artists or can be delivered directly to the Dahl.