Terry Oliver Bell

Terry Oliver Bell passed from this life on December 12, 2022. Terry aka “Pops” was born on December 24, 1950. Born of parents Elena Deserano and Fred Bell, and brother to four siblings, Pops was a life-long resident of Santa Paula. As a child, Pops enjoyed catching catfish with his hands in the riverbed, hiking through the hills around Santa Paula and working on cars.

Pops joined the Army in 1972, and on July 8th of the same year, married the love of his life, Brenda Brixey. Through the Army, Pops and Brenda aka “Beebee”, had the opportunity to travel to Germany, Texas and Oklahoma. In 1973, they had their son, Terry.

After the Army, Pops went to work as a diesel mechanic, and later became a diesel parts salesman for Oxnard Truck Center and Cummings Cal Pacific. As a family, the Bells enjoyed tent camping at Lake Casitas, bicycling, fishing, and spending time with their dogs. As their son grew older, Pops spent countless hours cheering Terry on at basketball games and restoring their 1956 Ford pickup.

Later in life, Pops enjoyed running into old friends around town, watching every Western movie ever made, and spending time with his grandchildren, Carson and Olivia. Some of his most treasured memories involved overnight trips to Disneyland, going to the Car Show and playing cards in the backyard. When Carson and Olivia were involved in sports, Pops would not only attend every game but also most practices. Pops’ devotion to his grandchildren was undeniable.

Pops is survived by his wife, Brenda, his son Terry, his daughter-in-law Korinne, his grandson Carson, his granddaughter Olivia, and his dog, Cassie.

Pops will be remembered as a wonderful man who loved his family and grandkids and showed it in quiet consistent ways. He will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to S.P.A.R.C., Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center, at www.sparcsaveslives.org.         

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