Family and friends remember Jim Bell as a true gentleman, a warm and witty character and a man who seemed happiest with Marie, in the company of family, friends and nature. Late of Lissadel, The Folly, Jim was Marie’s beloved husband, a much-loved Dad to Miriam, Paul, Ruth, Sinead and Niamh, and a cherished Grandad and Great-Grandad. Swimming was clearly a huge part of Jim’s life, particularly at the Guillamene and Newtown Cove, where friends remember his smile, his banter and, above all, “Jim’s Opinion” on the temperature of the water. One friend wrote that “Jim had salt in his veins,” while others remembered him as someone who was always pleasant, friendly and in good form, with a word for everyone.
Jim will also be remembered for his humour, his style and the pleasure people took in simply meeting him. Neighbours recalled a jolly, happy and dapper gentleman, while another tribute said you would often see his hat before you saw Jim. Friends spoke of his turn of phrase, his love of the banter and his determination to get the last word in. Away from the water, there were memories of golf at Waterford Golf Club and Friday night card games, while former work colleagues remembered him as helpful, pleasant and a gentleman to deal with. One neighbour also spoke movingly of Jim’s kindness to animals and the quiet moments spent doing crosswords in his conservatory. May Marie, Miriam, Paul, Ruth, Sinead, Niamh and all of Jim’s family find comfort in the laughter, the swims, the chats and the many memories left by a man who, as so many people said, lived life fully and brought good humour wherever he went.
Late of Lissadel, The Folly, Waterford City. Jim died peacefully at home with his loving family by his side after a sudden and brief illness on Friday the 9th of October 2026. RIP.
Leaving behind his beloved wife Marie (née Griffin), brother Leonard and sister Kay, children Miriam, Paul, Ruth, Sinead and Niamh, sons in law David, Brendan, Donal and Bill and his 12 grandchildren Rachel and Sarah; Lucia, Noah, Colin and Julia; Laura, Sean and James; Michael, Dominique and Donnacha and great grandchild Adonis. Predeceased by his parents Josie and Paddy, the first baby Miriam, his brother Anthony and sister Myra, sisters in law Ena and Terry and brothers in law Shay, Brian and Tony, and nephew Anthony. Fondly remembered by his brothers and sisters in law, his nieces, nephews and wide circle of friends, neighbours and swimming, golfing and work friends.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
Jim will be reposing in Falconers Funeral Home, Tramore, Co. Waterford X91TW21 on Sunday the 11th of October from 5pm to 7pm.
All are welcome
House Private Please.
Jim’s Requiem Mass will take place on Monday the 12th of October at 1pm at The Sacred Heart Church, The Folly, Waterford City, after which Jim will be laid to rest in St. Otteran’s Cemetery, Ballinaneeshagh, Waterford. City. Anyone wishing to take part in Jim’s Mass remotely can do so by using the link below
Jim’s Funeral Cortege will walk from his family home at approximately 12:30pm on Monday the 12th of October to arrive for his Requiem Mass.
Family flowers only, donations if desired to the South East Community Specialist Palliative Care (CSPC) Services.
Book of Condolence
Anyone wishing to leave a message of condolence can do so below.