Edward Bell

Edward Graham Bell of New Bern NC, died in his home in Durham NC, surrounded by his family on November 30th, 2025, at the age of 87 years old. Edward is survived by his son Edward Graham Bell II and his five grandchildren, Desire Faison, Edward Jose Bell, Amaya Bell, Alex Bell, and Adriana Bell.

Edward was born on February 27, 1938, in New Bern, NC to John Thomas Bell and Annie Crawford. He graduated from JT Barber High School as captain of the football and basketball team. He then went on to serve in the United States Army from September 26, 1961, until September 25, 1967, where he was honorably discharged with the Good Conduct Medal for Sharpshooter. Upon discharge from the military, he attended West Virginia State College and received his Bachelor of Arts. He then continued his education at Long Island University in New York where he obtained a diploma in Educational Administration and a Master of Science. He embarked on a career in social work with the Board of Cooperative Education, taking on roles as Assistant Principal and as a Drivers Ed teacher throughout his career. He retired from Boces after 29 years of service. He was a proud and active member of the Omega Psi Phi since January 1980. Edward relocated back to North Carolina in 1999 upon retirement, where he settled in Durham.

He enjoyed his retirement by spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved playing basketball at the YMCA and with his son and grandson. Edward was devoted to his faith in Christ. He was a member at St. Peter Ame Zion Church in New Bern and attended Union Baptist Church in Durham regularly. He will always be remembered as a kind and generous man who was always attentive to the needs of others and someone who cared much about his community especially his birth town of New Bern.

“I have fought the good fight. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day- and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. “Timothy 4:7-8

A funeral service is scheduled for 9:30am at Calvary Church in Durham on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025, followed by the graveside service at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery at 2pm. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Edwards life. Peaks and Waters Funeral Home of Durham has been entrusted to care for the Bell family.