Attended Quincy Elementary and graduated from Riverside High School, DeGraff, OH, Class of 1965; graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education from Miami University, 1969; received his Masters Degree of Education from Wright State University in 1972.
Gary began his teaching career at Sidney's Bridgeview Middle School in the fall of 1969. And in 1973 came to Covington as Elementary Principal; later completing his 30 years of teaching at Covington Middle School. He was quite active being involved in educational service activities. Gary was a member of Sidney Education Association, Covington Education Association, Western Ohio Education Association, Life member Ohio Education Association and National Education Association.
He enjoyed his love of teaching and giving to his love of live and volunteering in times of need, having served on the Quincy Miami Township Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad and the Covington Fire and Rescue Squads. Charter member of the Covington Eagles Aerie #3998; social member of Covington V.F.W. Post #4235; attended Covington Church of the Brethren.
Announcer of the Fort Rowdy Parade and certified with C.E.R.T. (Community Emergency Response Team). Gary was elected to Covington Village Council in 2003 and became Mayor of Covington, February, 2009.
Preceded in death by his father; two children, David Lee and Stephanie Kaye Bell; brother-in-law, Howard Riley. Gary is survived by his wife of 20 years, Annette Kay "Ann" (Forror) Bell; two sons, Ward & Michael Bell; daughter, Whitney Bell; granddaughters, Savanah and McKenna Bell; sister, Gloria Riley of Piqua; brother, Tim Bell & wife, Andi Bell of Hilliard, OH; nieces and nephews; father-in-law & mother-in-law, Bob & Pat Forror of Indian Lake; and the barking dog, Cami.
Funeral service 11:00 A.M. Friday at the Covington Church of the Brethren with Pastor Matthew Wright officiating. The family will receive friends 4-7 P.M. Thursday at the Covington Church of the Brethren.
In lieu of flowers, Gary requested donations may be made to the Quincy United Methodist Church and/or the Covington Rescue Squad.
Arrangements in care of Bridges-Stocker-Fraley Funeral Home, Covington.