Larry Wayne Bell

Larry Wayne Bell was born February 5, 1971 in Panama City, FL to parents Larry and Ann Bell. He passed away on October 21, 2025. Larry lived in DeFuniak Springs, graduated from Walton High School in 1989, and was a longtime member of Glendale Presbyterian Church.

The birth of his four children and watching them grow up was at the top of the list of things Larry was proud of. He never missed an opportunity to brag on them, never shied away from spoiling his children and grandchildren, and he treasured the strong relationship he had with each one. He was also very proud of his accomplishments in road construction, especially his time working at his family’s company, Gum Creek Farms, and the success of his own company, Bell Construction Services. There is not a piece of paving equipment anywhere that Larry didn’t know how to run. He worked on roads all the way from Northwest Florida and lower Alabama down to Alligator Alley and Miami, and he highly valued the brotherhood he built with his construction crews every mile of the way.

Larry lived life large. His passion for life directed his actions and carved an unforgettable path in every one of his pursuits. Tailgating, NASCAR, good eats, large crowds, and big fun was balanced with hard work and great love for his family and friends. Tailgating in the Grove in Oxford and enjoying game days in Tallahassee were normal activities during football season. Cooking for large groups was a passion of Larry’s - “the larger the crowd, the better the food” he would say. Talladega, especially Dale Earndhart, held a special place in Larry’s heart as well. At one point he had the number “3” shaved in his hair, and he could often be heard saying “Raise hell, praise Dale!” Although, according to him, no restaurant could produce a steak as good as he made them, he was always up for eating at the closest steakhouse. Enjoying good food with good people was another way Larry loved spending time. His older children will always remember concerts, running dogs, sporting events, and more. Larry was quick to buy the tickets and book the room to ensure they made special memories doing the things they all loved.

Larry is survived by his children Lauren Elizabeth Coffield (Adrian), Hunter Bell, Wrangler Bell, and Kemberlee Bell, brother Perry Bell (Jennifer), sisters Carrie Ann Williams (Israel), Beth Johnston (Chris), and Christa Merrifield-Floyd (Greg), and his mother Ann Merrifield (John R.). He also leaves behind 3 grandchildren that he truly adored - Lane, Brooks and Hudson. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Patton and Jeffey Bell, Zion, Isabella and Adeline Williams, Blaine Johnston and Holden Mitchell.

He is preceded in death by his father Larry Hugh Bell, his paternal grandparents Hubert Bell and Geraldine Hamilton, and his maternal grandparents Norman and Videlle Williams.

While most might know Larry as a stubborn, hard-headed wild card who got a kick out of ruffling feathers both in person and on social media, those who were blessed to truly know him will always remember his heart of gold and his willingness to do anything in the world for anyone in need. Showing his gentle side on Valentine’s Day each year, he showered the females in his life with chocolate-covered strawberries and pink roses. He was loud and stubborn, but he was also incredibly loyal, absolutely hilarious, and completely full of heart. He will be tremendously missed by all of his family and friends.

Honorary Pallbearers: George Miller, Gary Dunn, Tim Tindle, Jimmy Rogers, Michael Green, Nick Anderson, Myrick Anderson, Freddy Hamilton, Buddy Wright, Doug Bell and Kyle Ray.