Archdeacon David McClay pays tribute to Revd Canon Frank Bell
The Revd Canon Francis William Albert (Frank) Bell, died on Monday 23 May and his funeral service was held in Kilmore Parish Church on Wednesday 25 May.
After serving curacies in a number of parishes, Frank spent his entire ministry in the parishes of Ballyeasboro and Ardkeen. There he served the people faithfully and was a much loved and devoted pastor, preacher and friend. His daughters, Pamela, Hilary and Lorna, grew up in Ballyhalbert Rectory and they and Frank, together with his wife Greta, retained wonderful memories of their years in the Ards Peninsula. Frank and his brother John, also a retired rector, not only served as rectors together in Down and Dromore but had lots of common interests and were great friends as well as brothers.
Frank was a man with a wide range of hobbies and interests. He was an able gardener and always had a beautifully kept garden full of colour. He was also a bee keeper and his rural farming background extended to keeping his own chickens. But it will be as a kind and generous pastor and Christian gentleman, as well as a great father and loving husband, that Frank will be remembered.
I recall that when I was first ordained and came to the diocese, Frank was one of those older clergy who was always genuinely interested and concerned and would enquire after my own welfare and that of my family. At a diocesan Quiet Day or clergy event Frank would come quietly alongside and ask with genuine interest and concern, “Well how are you”?
The thoughts and prayers of many are with Frank’s family at this time. He will be much missed.