Obituary

Terry Allen Bell

April 9, 1948 - February 18, 2026

A Life of Faith, Strength, Service, and Love

Terry Allen Bell, a resident of Lee's Creek, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, leaving behind a life defined by faith, strength, service, and love for his family. Born on April 9, 1948, Terry was a man who believed deeply in God, country, and caring for the people entrusted to him. Terry attended Bogalusa High School, where he loved playing football, and Louisiana Tech University prior to enlisting in the United States Army.

He proudly served in the United States Army Aviation branch, retiring with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3. As a fixed-wing combat surveillance pilot, helicopter pilot, instructor pilot, and MEDEVAC pilot with the 1st Air Cavalry Division, he served honorably for more than eleven years, including service during the Vietnam era and in Korea. His decorations included the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device 60, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Medal, Senior Army Aviation Badge, and Armed Forces Reserve Medal. He was honorably discharged on June 15, 1979. Terry was a true patriot who loved his country. 

After his military service, Terry continued flying with Air Logistics, where he was awarded Pilot of the Year honors. He later achieved working as a Production Operator for ExxonMobil until retirement, forming lifelong friendships throughout his career.

A faithful Baptist, Terry was baptized in 1958 and continued a life of service as a Deacon, Sunday School teacher, and member of several church committees. His faith guided his life and anchored his family.

He was a proud supporter of the LSU Tigers and rarely missed a game. Football Saturdays were treasured times spent cheering on the Tigers with family and friends.  Geaux Tigers!

He was preceded in death by his father, James Denman Bell; his mother, Sylvia Small Bell; and his son, Terry A. Bell II.

He is survived by his wife, Paula Williams Bell; his daughter, Sarah Bell Lane and her husband Sam Lane; his son, Caleb Bell and his wife Amber Burt Bell; his granddaughter Alyssa Sides and her husband Kevin Sides; his granddaughter Caroline Bell Abney and her husband Tyler Abney; his grandson Nicholas Bell; his granddaughters Lillian Bell, Avery Bell, and Brylee Rae Bell; and his great-grandchildren Liv and Abram Abney, and Huxen Sides.  Affectionately known to the grandchildren as Poppie or Pops.

He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and honored.

Graveside Military honors will be performed by Fort Polk Honor Guard on Saturday, March 14, 29026 at 12:00 P.M. in Ponemah Cemetery.

Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.