Richard Gordon Bell April 11, 1937 - December 8, 2025

On December 8, 2025, Richard Gordon Bell peacefully completed his earthly journey, surrounded by those he loved most, and returned to his Heavenly Father.

Richard was born on April 11, 1937, in Nephi, Utah, to Gordon Bell and Effie Jayne Bigler Bell. He grew up in the small mining town of Eureka, Utah—a place that shaped his strong work ethic, love of community, and lifelong friendships. He attended school in Eureka and graduated from Tintic High School in 1955. During his high school years, Richard was known for both his athletic and musical talents. He excelled on the basketball court and proudly played the trumpet in the school band.

From a young age, Richard embraced hard work and adventure. At just 16 years old, he spent a summer working in Bryce Canyon. He also worked for Laird’s Grocery in Eureka, delivering groceries to local homes twice a week—an early sign of the service-oriented life he would continue to live. After high school, he attended Snow College, and on August 10, 1956, he married the love of his life and eternal companion, Sheralyn “Sherry” Thomas, in the Salt Lake Temple.

Richard and Sherry began their married life in Provo, where Richard worked at Firmage’s Department Store selling shoes. They later moved to Logan so Richard could attend Utah State University. Though he once hoped to pursue a military career, it wasn’t meant to be; however, his love for his country never wavered. He followed politics closely and cared deeply about civic responsibility.

In 1961, Richard accepted a position with the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier in Dugway, prompting a move that would mark the beginning of a long and meaningful career. He became Postmaster of Dugway in 1970. In 1975, the family moved to Tooele while Richard continued serving as Dugway’s Postmaster. In 1978, the Bells moved to Payson, where Richard became Postmaster once again. He often joked that they would only stay three years—but his love for the people and the community quickly made Payson home, and they remained there.

Richard was deeply involved in the Payson community. He served on the Planning and Zoning Committee and the Onion Days Committee, where he helped organize the parade for many years. He also ran for city commissioner and was honored as Citizen of the Month. Serving the people of Payson brought him great joy and purpose. He retired from the Postal Service in January 2002 after decades of dedicated service.

Faith was the cornerstone of Richard’s life. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings throughout the years. In Dugway, he served as both counselor to the bishop and later as bishop. In Payson, he served as scoutmaster, a role he cherished. Richard and Sherry spent many summers as camp hosts at KOHOLOWO for the young women—a calling close to his heart. He also served for many years with young single adults, and from 2004–2005, he and Sherry served a CES mission in the Mississippi Jackson Mission. Richard also served faithfully as an ordinance worker in the Provo and Payson temples for ten years.

Richard loved life and embraced learning and adventure. He enjoyed traveling with his “post office family,” visiting places such as Washington, D.C., San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Alaska. He treasured a special trip to Hawaii with his oldest daughter and her family and had a deep appreciation for history, especially visiting the handcart company sites in Wyoming. In December 1998, Richard graduated from the Utah College of Massage Therapy, reflecting his lifelong curiosity and desire to help others. He also found joy in reading, photography, and cooking—often sharing his talents with family and friends.

Above all else, Richard loved his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Sherry, and their children: Lori (Morgan) Warner, Gordon (Cindy) Bell, Pam (Paul) Rothe, Colin (Deborah) Bell, Karla (J. Eldon) Smith, Mark (Erika) Bell, and Matt (Trish) Bell. He is also survived by his sister Jackie (David) Chavis; brother Don (Kris) Bell; sisters-in-law JoAnn (Richard) Dunn and Leann Larsen; 22 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his baby sister, Joan Effie.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home in Payson. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Mountain View Stake Center, located at 75 S. 600 E., Payson, Utah. A viewing will take place prior to the service from 9:30–10:30 a.m. at the stake center. Interment will follow at Payson City Cemetery, 400 N. 800 E., Payson, Utah.